Odessa, on the frontier of the ex Soviet Union, is the new tourist magnet for Americans. But what brings them there?

The pioneer spirit is strong with these Americans who are taking advantage of Odessa's reputation as home of the world's most beautiful women.

Economic prospects in Odessa are poor, alcoholism is widespread, and women outnumber men almost 5 to 4.

One area of the economy which is doing well is the marriage business. Men are in such short supply that many girls, some as young as 18, signup to join one of the numerous marriage agencies.

Glitzy websites show a seemingly endless procession of beautiful single women. One of these is Julia, 27 years old, whose situation is typical of many of the girls in the catalogs.