Full Circle
Day 99: Zamboanga

It could only happen in the Philippines, but I find myself, a few hours after the cock-fight, judging a beauty contest by the sea at Vista del Mar, in an atmosphere made markedly fresher and cooler by the afternoon storm.
The contestants for the crown of Miss La Bella Pacifica must be of 'at least' High School age, 'of good moral character, physical beauty, talent and intelligence'. And presumably women. I settle myself down for a delightful and relaxing evening, only to find that I am required to work as hard as I have in any three-hour period since taking my Final exams at Oxford. Not only are we judging Miss La Bella P but also Best in a Swimsuit, Best in a Gown, Best Ethnic (traditional outfits), Miss la Bella Tourism and Miss Photogenic.
What with all the scores to add up it becomes an exercise in mental arithmetic. But I did get to kiss the winner. Once.
Choose another day from Full Circle
PALIN'S GUIDES
- Series: Full Circle
- Day: 99
- Country/sea: Philippines
- Place: Vista del Mar
- Book page no: 143
Bookmarks will keep your place in one or more series. But you'll need to register and/or log in.