A giant boa slips through the hands of its handler, and a small group of men gather at back tables to enjoy steaming bowls of turtle soup. Visitors crowd the stall as the handler reaches for another snake, which soon hangs from its tail.
In this city’s only indoor night market, tourists watch the writhing animal fall lifeless with the quick pierce of a knife. A second pierce drains the snake’s blood and venom, which is mixed with rice wine and sold to the brave for drinking.
Some natives of this capital city view the street as more of a tourist attraction than a traditional night market, but locals can still be seen imbibing the blood mixture for its supposed health benefits.
Just down the road from this alleyway, intricately carved dragons protect the city’s oldest Buddhist temple, built in 1738 by Fujianese immigrants. Not far from here looms one of the world’s tallest buildings, named for its 101 above-ground stories. This Asian metropolis of 2.9 million is also the home of a museum that is known for its extensive collection of art and antiques dating back to the Ch’in and Han dynasties.
Where am I?
Name this street and city and enter to win a newly released travel book. Send your answer to goworld@goworldtravel.com.
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| Jack London Square in Oakland, California. |
Answer to the January 2006
“Where in the World” Contest
Last month’s mystery location was Jack London Square in Oakland, California. Our image shows a life-size statue of renowned author Jack London watching over the Oakland Waterfront.
Thanks to all who wrote in with their guesses. This month’s winner is Stella from Fayetteville, NC. Congratulations, Stella!
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