Miss Universe 2013 contestants were treated to a warm reception in Moscow as the organizers hosted a sumptuous welcome dinner at an exclusive Italian restaurant, Zafferano, on Oct. 24. The beauties came dressed in their best outfits and made quite an impression on the sponsors of the event. Miss Philippines Ariella Arida was one of the best dressed amongst the contestants. The Filipino beauty stood out in a cream coloured half and half gown which she had coupled with free falling hair and minimal make-up.

Arida's confidence shone through her beautiful smile and her positive attitude was commendable. Arida is being considered the strongest bet for the Miss Universe 2013 crown and has one of the best bodies amongst the pageant beauties. According to Ariella's personal trainer John Cauy, the 24-year-old Laguna born beauty has an extremely proportionate physique. Cauy told Philstar.com, "We have worked to enhance her curves from the right places, generally tone her musculature still emphasizing on a feminine physique."

Besides the physical training Ariella has also worked on her communication skills. Ara is not very fluent with English and she is working hard to learn the language.

Miss Universe-Philippines 2011 third runner-up, Shamcey Supsup believes that Ariella Arida is already a winner. She said in an interview on the ABS-CBN News Channel's (ANC) Headstart,

"As long as you did your best, as long as you gave it your all, you trained hard; the Filipinos would appreciate that already. It doesn't matter if you win or not, pero siempre you aim to win, pero whatever happens, you already made us proud because you've done your best, you represented the country and that's already a mark of a winner."

We hope that Ariella Arida lives up to the expectations of her countrymen. She will be competing with the 89 contestants of Miss Universe 2013 pageant on Nov. 9 at the Crocus City hall, in Moscow.

Miss Universe 2013 Timeline is as follows:

  • 20-24 Oct., 2013: Contestants arrive in Moscow
  • 25 Oct.: Welcome dinner
  • 26 Oct.- 3 Nov.: Various pre-pageant activities
  • 3 Nov.: National Costume show
  • 5 Nov.: Preliminary Competition
  • 6-9 Nov.: On The Scene with Teen recap show
  • 9 Nov.: Miss Universe 2013 Final Telecast (Live on NBC and TV networks of participant countries)
  • 9 Nov.: Russian Standard After-Party
  • 10 Nov.: Contestants' departure