I’m stretched out under a slender shade tree, but that doesn’t seem to help. The air is still hot and sticky, so thick that it takes effort to breathe.

To be honest, I don’t feel like moving — and neither does anyone else. During the last ten minutes only one driver has pedaled past with a customer. And from my seat under the tree, I can see about a dozen other drivers waiting patiently in the shade. Some of them have feet stretched up on the handlebars, catching a nap. Others chat quietly, enjoying this lazy reprieve.

Toward evening, as the temperature cools, this town of 1.2 million will come alive. The Night Bazaar will swing into full gear, with vendors coming up from the capital or traveling down from the northern hill tribes to sell their wares. Tonight I’ll have a driver take me to the bazaar, where I’m sure to find plenty of bargains.

As for now, I should be off exploring, for there is plenty to see in this peaceful land. If I wanted to learn about the Royal Family, I could visit the Princess Mother’s Swiss-style chalet. Or if I want to learn more about this land’s dominant religion, I could visit one of a dozen gold-gilded temples.

I could also head for the border. Just 30 miles to the northwest is the once prosperous land that now struggles under the heavy hand of a military government. And a half an hour's drive to the northeast is another Asian country that has seen its share of war. These three nations meet in a fertile region called the Golden Triangle.

Yes, there is much to experience here, and I plan to soak it all in — tomorrow. For now, I’ll lean back against my tree, close my eyes and enjoy the rhythmic sounds of the city.

Where am I?

Send your answer to goworld@goworldpublishing.com. All readers correctly identifying this city and country will be entered in a drawing. The winner will receive a newly released travel book.

Venice Cafe in St. Louis, Missouri, USA

Answer to the July 2005 “Where in the World” Contest

Last month’s mystery destination was St. Louis, Missouri, USA. Thanks to all those who wrote in with their guesses. Congratulations to Deidre of Yardley, Pennsylvania, USA, who was drawn as this month's winner.