Dear Editor,

Bravo! for choosing healthy, beautiful and natural looking models rather than victims of plastic surgery anorexic waifs. It's hard to identify with Bay Watch models or Kate Moss. Those extremes are passe and end up as jokes on Jay Leno. Healthy beauty is "in" for the millenium.

- E.R., ASU AZ

Dear Swimsuit illustrated,

I love your new direction! I really appreciate the way you approach beauty and fitness, keeping it real for us everyday people. I hope your beauty anf fashion editors will have lots of features on the latest in sun protection, really flattering bathing suits we can actually wear in the water, quick beauty tricks for hair and skin, and simple exercise routines. Your magazine is more useful and current with all these new trends - keep up the good work.

- J.D., Fort Lauderdale

Dear Swimsuit Illustrated,

I would be interested in articles about Yoga, meditation and breathing for relaxation and energy. I would love to learn some breathing exercises to reduce stress and to energize. I am really busy and stressed and I want to be in control. Yoga, meditation and simple breathing exercises would help me and others cope in this crazy world.

- P.T. Toronto, Canada

<<REPLY>>
For now try and breathe easy, we will feature it in our Health & Fitness department. Watch for it.

I am interested in getting into modeling. How do you suggest that I get started? I have been told that model competitions are a good way to get started.

- Jenna, Chicago, IL

<<REPLY>>
Modeling schools are best for the basics. A good photographer and agency are most important. For those brave souls that like to jump in, the contest route is also a good wat to get started. try our Swimsuit Illustrated Galaxy Competition in your area and around the world. The finals will be in Orlando, Florida, November 2003. Email fro application and event schedule in your area. ssimag@aol.com

Dear Editors,

I need to see features on cute, comfortable and functional work-out wear, including footwear. I need to stay current on fashions since I am at the gym every week.

- Tina, Newport Beach, CA

Dear SSI,

These women look real and not like the plastic haggard super models shown time and time again in the major publications. You guys seem to keep bringing a wide variety of (real) beautiful women to print. Natural beautiful women in swimsuits work for me. Keep them coming and keep it real!

- Doug Von Dabbler, Santa Barbara, CA

<<REPLY>>
We are glad you like our focus and we will continue to find and publish the worlds most beautiful women.

Dear Editors,

We bathing beauties go out at night too! I would like to see some of your models in some young, fun evening wear, at some of the glamorous, exotic locations your magazine is famous for. I like to dream...Thanks.

- Keanna, Los Angeles, CA

Dear SSI Editor,

I have got a really busy schedule and I am rarely home. Quick foods on the go are the only way I survive. Can you give me some healthful tips and posiibly some recipes?

- H.E., Irvine, CA

Dear Editor,

Please give me some of your model's beauty secrets. I know others would love the inside scoop too! I'd love to know their favorite make-up, beauty and exercise tips, and other modeling tricks!

- Carra, Torrance, CA

<<REPLY>>
Well Carra we aim to please! Check out our fashion page.

Dear SSI Magazine,

We ran into your group at the CocoBongo last month and enjoyed meeting a few photographers and models and cocktails. That night we got a copy of your magazine and were very pleased with the variety of gorgeous women illustrated. The images of fit women of all nationalities and styles appeal to us. We both enjoy travel, keeping fit and a relaxed social life. This magazine is far from the stuffy corporate minimalist rags we pick up and do not buy. It's as laid back as we are amd makes us feel at home. I would like to try out for your next calendar. Where will you guys be in March? Maybe we can meet.

- Sarah & Bodi CANCUN