She also brings home the award for best national costume.

The pageant attracts the participation of 55 countries around the globe.

Thao, a recent graduate of the Vietnam Maritime University, is a youthful exuberant competitor who gives all to represent her country at the competition. 

She says being named among the top 10 is one of the most exciting experiences of her young life but she is a bit let down for not having gone further.