Repeat after me: Orangután

Univision last week announced the 12-finalists who will compete in Nuestra Belleza Latina, the weekly reality show in which Latinas from all over the country compete for the title, a contract as one of Univision’s on-air personalities and a chance to win more than $200,000. And thank God the 12 finalists are kind of cute, because during last week’s on-camera test, not one was able to say the word “orangután” properly … And they were reading it from a teleprompter.

Having made it to the finals, the 12 girls are now ready to face another round of weekly challenges which, according to Univision, will “test their talent and character.” But worry no more. This time around they will work to perfect their runway walks, dancing, singing and acting skills, as well as undergo a rigorous fitness regime. No more journalistic challenges please!

Acapulco en la Azotea

It is official. Mexico is a surreal country.

This month, my fellow chilangos were able to enjoy the wonders of the beach (sun, sand and water included) without having to leave home.

Inspired by a growing trend in the European capitals, the mayor of Mexico City this month inaugurated four urban beaches, complete with sand imported from Veracruz, inflatable pools and carts selling “fresh” seafood. Landlocked Mexico City residents rapidly crowed the beaches, some installed by the side of noisy roads, enjoying what most will never be able to afford in the real world.

The media, of course, has looked at the whole thing with humor. A recent front-page story on El Universal Gráfico illustrated a story about the urban beaches with a photo composition showing divers jumping off the Monumento a la Revolución and into the ocean.