Behind-the-scenes of Miss Universe: A look this year's hopefuls as they rehearse for beauty pageant extravaganza

Eighty-nine beauty pageant hopefuls from across the globe are busy gearing up for this year's Miss Universe contest.
The women aged 19 to 26, who arrived at the Planet Hollywood Resort in Las Vegas on Monday, have been non-stop with pre-contest activities that include photo shoots, make-up tests and interviews.
But while behind-the-scenes shots show them looking happy and relaxed in each other's company, their competitive spirit will no doubt shine through when they hit the stage and strut their stuff at the grand final on December 19.

 

Finishing touches: Miss Honduras 2012, Jennifer Andrade, gets her make-up done before posing for photos

Leila Lopes, 26, from Angola, the current Miss Universe, will crown her successor at the end of the live event.

 

Last year the business student dazzled the panel of judges with both her beauty and brains and since her win she has been raising awareness of HIV and AIDS prevention.

 

From left: Miss Germany, Alicia Endemann, Miss Netherlands, Nathalie den Dekker and Miss Belgium, Laura Beyne - all of the beauty pageant hopefuls are staying at the Planet Hollywood resort in Las Vegas
As well as competing in categories ranging from swimsuits to evening gowns, the women will also have to answer questions that tell the judges a bit about themselves.
At the 2011 contest Lopes was asked what she might change about her physical characteristics, and she replied that she was satisfied with who she was.

'I consider myself a woman endowed with inner beauty,' she told the judges and the audience.

Making waves: Miss Canada, Yamoah Adwoa, plays by the pool

Hold one moment: Miss Germany, Alicia Endemann, gets her hair tweaked by stylist Sergio Salinas

'I have acquired many wonderful principles from my family, and I plan to follow those through the rest of my life.'
All of the women are currently staying at the Planet Hollywood resort, where the grand final will also be held.
After checking into the hotel this week, they were given a full medical assessment by Miss Universe doctors and nutritionists.
They were then sent to get their hair and make-up done for their first photo shoots.

Propping up the bar: Miss Brazil, Gabriela Markus pictured inside the Planet Hollywood resort

 

The first shoot required them to change into their swim gear as they posed by the hotel's poolside, while the second one allowed them to get more creative as they slipped into party gear.
Rehearsals for the 61st Miss Universe showdown will begin on Saturday.
The final will be hosted by U.S. TV personality Andy Cohen and E! news anchor Giuliana Rancic.
However the judging panel is yet to be announced.

 

 

Dressing for the occasion: Miss Guatemala, Laura Godoy, models some festive fashions

 

Ready for questions: Miss France 2012, Marie Payet, poses in the interview room

Last year panelists included race car driver Helio Castroneves, actress Vivica A. Fox and journalist Connie Chung.
Following the contest all contestants will return to their respective countries for Christmas.

 

The contest dates back to 1952, when it started out as a local 'bathing beauty' competition spearheaded by Catalina Swimwear in Long Beach, Los Angeles, Southern California.
The 2012 Miss Uinverse competition will air on NBC on December 19
NOW MEET THE REST OF THE MISS UNIVERSE GIRLS!

 

Festive fun: Miss Curacao, Monifa Jansen, Miss Guatemala, Laura Godoy and Miss Aruba, Liza Helder - since arriving in the U.S. on Monday all of the contestants have been non-stop

 

 

 

 

Bathing beauties: Miss Belgium, Laura Beyne (Left) and Miss Ethiopia, Helen Getachew (right)

 

 

Taking a dip: Miss Serbia, Branislava Mandia (left) and Miss Canada, Yamoah Adwoa (right)

Pageant pout: Miss Belgium, Laura Beyne; Miss Netherlands, Nathalie den Dekker; and Miss Germany, Alicia Endemann strike a pose as they take part in a pre-contest photo shoot

 

 

 

Poolside shots: Miss Jamaica, Chantal Zaky (left) Miss Aruba, Liza Helder (right)

 

 

Strike a pose: Miss Poland, Marcelina Zawadzka (left) and Miss Honduras, Jennifer Andrade (right)

 

From left: Miss Germany, Alicia Endemann, Miss Netherlands, Nathalie den Dekker and Miss Belgium, Laura Beyne