Thirty-five beauty queens, 18 from the north and 17 from the south, are vying for the title in an 18-day contest where they will have to participate in various rounds of challenging events.

The northern region gals took the opportunity to show off their figures on August 11 as they arrive at Tan Son Nhat Airport in casual dress. 

They plan to take in some sightseeing in Ho Chi Minh City and neighbouring provinces over the next few days to promote the competition.

They are all excited as they talk amongst themselves about the finals that will test their physical fitness, mental creativity, styling, interview skills, individual talent, model potential and social skills.

Their attention shifts later in the day to focusing on selecting the best Ao Dai gowns and costumes for the extravaganza.

The glamorous competition is a far cry from their usual everyday lives.

The Miss Vietnam grand final will take place on August 28 at the Hoa Binh Theatre in Ho Chi Minh City.

Tickets are still available.

The final night will feature K Pop singer Bi Rain and singers Thu Minh, Toc Tien, Noo Phuoc Thinh and Dong Nhi.