Judging the annual Miss Exilio contest is no light matter, and once I’d arrived with my g3 clipboard in toe I realised what an honour it actually was. These “ladies” are pageant professionals, and are well-versed in the art of fake eyelash application and the aesthetic benefits of well-placed diamante. The audience were lively and showed their support with roses, flags and cheering; and picked from an elegant parade of feathers, sequins and rouge, the beautiful Miss Cuba was eventually crowned as the hailing Queen of 2005. Before the actual contest began, the revellers at Exilio were treated to sensuous, energetic Latin beats. This club is the beating heart of the gay Latin community, providing a vivacious and colourful alternative in our now festively chilly city. The dancers are a mix of sexy professionals and cheerful amateurs, all shaking out sambas and hip-swivelling rhumbas; but in truth, Exilio is not about skill, it’s about passion

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