PHUKET, Thailand (19 May 2005) -- While some of the 81 contestants vying for the crown held by current Miss Universe Jennifer Hawkins snorkeled along Thailand's southern coast, others visited a hospital that cared for victims of December's disaster and observed Patong beach's new tsunami warning system.
Host Thailand has promoted this year's pageant as an opportunity to showcase Asia's rebound from the giant waves, and many of the contestants from countries affected by the catastrophe felt the tug of emotion as they visited Phuket.
"It's close to my heart," Miss India Amrita Thapar told reporters of the regional recovery effort.
Miss Universe snorkeling babes readjust their snorkels and bikinis to support Thailand's battered tourism industry.
"These countries were affected by the tsunami, and it's a step in the right direction to have us here, not just in the beauty pageant but supporting the cause and letting people know that Asia has what it takes to move on."
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