Miss Tourism Lebanon, Miss Tourism Russia, Miss Tourism Spain and Miss Tourism Mexico celebrate reching the final 10.

Contestants from 60 nations took part in a poolside procession as the Miss Tourism 2012 World Final got under way at the Pathumwan Princess Hotel in Bangkok on December 12th.

The top 10 Fashion Show contestants were the representatives of Guadeloupe, Thailand, Italy, Mexico, Russia, Spain, Belgium, Lebanon, Poland and Equatorial Guinea, although the Swimsuit Fashion Show was held as a special award, and has no bearing on the Miss Tourism 2012 World Final scores.

The Miss Tourism 2012 World Final will take place on 16th December at Siam Niramit in Bangkok.

A swimsuit created by Chatchompoo Komolsingsakul was premiered in style.  Miss Thailand was transported shoulder high across the pool before unveiling the 300,000 baht jewel and gold embellished outfit designed in the concept of Suvanabhumi, Land of Gold.

This is the first time that the Miss Tourism World Final will be held in Asia.  Contestants will encourage the promotion of tourist attractions and cultural heritage sites in Thailand as the beauty contest travels to various provinces throughout the country.

Words and photos by Paul Hutton, Bangkok Scene.