65 contestants from 63 countries and regions across the globe gathered in China's financial capital, Shanghai, in preparation for the Elite Model Look World Finals. Now let's drop by the two-week modelling boot camp to see how things are going ahead of the finals on December 6th.

The girls also visited a teahouse in the traditional Yu Garden, as they were introduced to a variety of Chinese tea and snacks by their Chinese hosts.

Begun in 1983, the Elite Model Look is an international modelling contest geared towards discovering young talents to be groomed into international supermodels. Besides rehearsals and photoshoots, Organizers in Shanghai have also arranged for the girls to enjoy the city life and Chinese culture.

The contestants took part in a tai chi class at the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower in the city's financial district of Lujiazui as they sought to understand more of their host country's ancient culture. Contestants said they were looking forward to the finals next week as they sought to look their best and exude confidence ahead of competition day.

Ashley Pattison Scott, US, said, "Well I've been trying to break in my heels and work on my walk. Just trying to get enough sleep and good food in me to help keep me fresh and awake."

The girls also visited a teahouse in the traditional Yu Garden, as they were introduced to a variety of Chinese tea and snacks by their Chinese hosts. They also got to enjoy the unique charms of Chinese art, learning Chinese calligraphy, music and painting at a private club house. This is the sixth time for China to host the competition, with Shanghai and the resort city of Sanya sharing the honors.

Li Xiaoxing, from China, said, "For me, the main thing is to be able to bring glory to my country, standing as a Chinese girl on the world stage. So I will try my best."

The Elite Model Look contest is one of the most renowned international modelling competitions, attracting hundreds of thousands of participants from cities around the world. Only the winner of each country's Elite Model Look contest will qualify to participate in the World Finals every year.