Venezuelan crowned transgender beauty queen in Thai contest

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 08, 2014
Venezuelan crowned transgender beauty queen in Thai contest

PATTAYA - A 22-year-oldVenezuelan was crowned "Miss International Queen" on Fridaynight at a beauty contest that bills itself as the world'slargest and promotes the rights of transsexuals andtransvestites.

Isabella Santiago beat 21 contestants from 18 countries towin the title and prize money of $12,500 at a glittering pageantin the Thai resort town of Pattaya. The winner of the 2014contest can also opt for free cosmetic surgery.

       Santiago, who wore a shimmery white evening gown, laughedand said "Sleep!" when asked about her plans after the win.

       "When on stage, she is so elegant and that's why the judges'decision was unanimous," said Seri Wongmontha, one of thepageant's judges.

       The contest, in its tenth year, was held at the Tiffany'snightclub famous for its transvestite cabaret.