A diamond among diamonds

SHANGHAI - Even if you do not have time to check out Chongqing - which is famous for gorgeous ladies - you still have a chance to meet its beauties in the Chongqing Pavilion at the Expo Garden.

Nie Aixin, the new Miss Chongqing, greets visitors at the Chongqing Pavilion, presenting a beautiful image for the southwestern municipality. [China Daily]

Unlike straightforward northern women or sweet-tempered southern belles, Chongqing women are famous for their pretty looks and fiery nature, a result of the mountainous environment and moist weather of the southwestern area.

Nie Aixin, a 20-year-old student from Southwest University, was crowned Miss Chongqing after rounds of selection that included sashaying across stage, wisely answering challenging questions from judges and performing dances and songs.

Nie and other winners in the pageant are now serving as guides in the Chongqing Pavilion during Expo 2010 Shanghai to show off the new look of the city.

Compared with glamorous runway shows under the lights, working at the Expo Garden is not easy, and sometimes even boring.

"We have to stand at least eight hours every day. After standing for several hours, my legs really ache," Nie said. It is the first time she has had to stand such a long time in her life.

Though the girls have a 30-minute break after standing for one hour, she always feels the time for rest passes too quickly.

Yet a kind smile is essential for these young girls' work.

"Smiling can bring us closer to each other. At the end of the day, I find my cheeks ache because I'm smiling too much," Nie said.

As the winner of the beauty contest, Nie is always the focus of attention.

"Many visitors like to pose for a picture with me, and some of them ask my name and want my cell phone number," she said. At first, the unsophisticated young woman artlessly gave out her number, until she learned how to politely refuse.

Nie said she is always optimistic with her work. "I don't let the pressure get me down, and just keep smiling."

"After all, our appearance represents our hometown. I hope I can bring our best side to visitors from around the world."