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Want to look like Pia?

SHE'S REIGNED AS the world's (or should that be universe's) top ranking pageant queen for the last year and just before Filipino-German Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach passes on the crown she will be visiting Dubai tomorrow.
 A guest of Dragon Mart 2, Pia will be meeting guests at the outlet from 6pm where she'll talk about fashion and beauty tips before meeting and greeting competition winners. Just before arriving, though, we managed to secure a little preview of what to expect by talking with Pia over the phone this week.

How does it feel to be coming to Dubai?
I'm very excited. It'll be my first time there. I already know a lot about it because of the iconic buildings and the amazing food. The people are very friendly and I'm excited to meet everyone there especially in a fun place.

Are you an avid shopper?
Of course! I think any girl is. I'm excited! Dragon Mart is bringing me to experience Dubai. They are a shop, so I feel it is my duty to shop!
I especially like cosmetics and fashion.

Shopping aside, how does Miss Universe spend an average day?
It's so difficult to answer. There is no average day in this job. It changes every day. One day I could be building a mud hut, then I could be handing out food donations and then I could be on a red carpet. You have to be prepared for whatever they give you.
Most of the work we're doing now is promoting the pageant because we're getting close to the competition, but it has been a lot of charity over the year which has been incredible.

What advice do you have for this year's contestants?
You can't over think and over analyse everything. You have to learn when to shine. You need to be able to enjoy the down time, so you are able to give it the most when you're in the spotlight. You need to find the balance between when to relax and when to fight. You don't need to be 'on' during the breakfast buffet! There are no judges watching you.

Did you ever have any spotlight nerves?
I didn't feel them. I didn't feel like there's a huge change and it wasn't uncomfortable. Miss Universe trains you really well for the attention. When you win you get even more. You learn what other winners have been through.

What has this year taught you?
Because I'm such a people pleaser I agree to everything. I have tended to ignore what I need. So this year has taught me to ask 'what does Pia want?' Even up to now it is difficult to answer that. I still want to people please and often that's what makes me happiest.

What do you do when you have to pass on the crown?
That's it, that's the end of my life! No, I live in the Philippines and I like acting and being in front of the camera there, so you'll definitely hear from me one way or another.if I don't get into trouble.

Pia's fashion tips
I always fail at this but try not to underestimate the weather where you are. It's warm in Dubai with a lot of humidity. You can't see that from looking out the window. Go out early and see how it is yourself.
Pia's fitness tips
Try to stay active and drink a lot of water. Little choices like walking instead of cab, stairs instead of elevator, all adds to your lifestyle. It's pretty obvious most of the time.
david@khaleejtimes.com