BLOGGERS and pageant fans are predicting that Miss South Africa Tatum Keshwar is a hot favourite to walk away with the Miss Universe title on Sunday.

Before leaving for the Bahamas, Keshwar told Sowetan: "I would love to win Miss Universe but I know that it is also important to enjoy the experience. I am going to make the most of it and make South African people proud."

Arriving in Nassau on August 1, Keshwar's first few days were filled with fittings, video tapings and mingling with fellow contestants.

She has travelled extensively around the island, enjoying visits to the Ardastra Gardens, Fort Charlotte, Clifton Heritage Site and the National Art Gallery.

Several South African designers, including Gerrit Pienaar, Hendrik Vermeulen, Haroun Hansrot and Malcolm Kluk & CGDT put together a couture collection of formal garments. Keshwar has been spoilt for choice when deciding what to wear at the different Miss Universe events.

Yesterday she was in rehearsals for the big night, where Venezuelan Dayana Mendoza, Miss Universe 2008, will crown her successor at a live event being held at Atlantis, Paradise Island, Bahamas.

During her reign, Dayana travelled the globe as an advocate for HIV-Aids education, research and legislation.

Bloggers and fans have rated them as follows:

l Miss Universe 2009 - South Africa, Tatum Keshwar.

l First runner-up - Puerto Rico, Mayra Matos Perez.

l Second runner-up: Dominican Republic, Ada Aimee de la Cruz.

l Third runner-up - US, Kristen Dalton, and fourth runner-up: France, Chloe Mortaud.

See video and more pictures on: www.sowetan.co.za