The more time I spend on this trip, the more my misconceptions of a “Miss” or “Mister” competition fade away.

To put it mildly, my expected preconception originally was that of a “bimbo world” for both girls and boys who cared only about their looks and not much concern about anyone or anything else.  I guess that’s the stereotype trap that is easy to fall in.

However, as I sat on the panel of judges last night as a member of the press while listening to one of the Miss finalists playing the saxophone in a rehearsal for a talent section, just one thing they have to go through, I realised there is much more to this competition than first meets the eye.  Some finalists however did make you groan with predictable dancing or even strip tease acts, but this is only the first 'exposure' for them.  They are going to have to work hard and perfect their acts until the actual final that takes place on 19th December in Chateau d'Urspelt in Clervaux.

All the finalists are staying in Hotel Royal Garden in Djerba, which turns out to be a bit of a Luxair destination.  This means that quite a few of the guests come from Luxembourg. The hotel now positively throngs with a prowess of lodging Miss and Mister Luxembourg finalists and many guests (Luxembourgish or not) come and chat to the candidates, showing obvious glee at being able to witness or be photographed with the girls and boys.

This is by no means a “walk in the park” trip for them as I have mentioned before, although nobody is grumbling at the sunny and relaxing location.  Finalists are giving it their all, up to and beyond midnight on some days to get it right.  Frustration for some is beginning to show and lack of confidence in others but unfortunately, unlike the TV shows such as “America’s Top Model”  I have no scandal to report back which is slightly disappointing.  No arguing, rivalry or hair-pulling amongst finalists….   Maybe I’ll have some gossip by the end of the week!  Actually I'm quite sure this will not be that case as the team atmosphere all the finalists convey is admirable.

All the preparations climax on Thursday, when a big catwalk constructed in the reception area of the hotel will be trodden by the finalists in front of all the hotel guests, the local mayor and many other prestigious guests.

From someone who didn’t have much interest in Miss or Mister competitions in the past,  I now find myself stressing for the finalists.  I’ll be there biting my nails for their first public performance tonight.