Miss World 2008 -- Beauties from Semi-Obscure Countries

The so-called "major countries" often get the most attention from Miss World audiences. But while Miss USA and Miss Brazil will always get their share of the popular vote, what about Miss Kazakhstan? Miss Chinese Taipei? Miss Angola?

Miss World pageant features 109 contestants this year -- a record -- so we want to celebrate those slightly more obscure girls in the running for the prize. That's why we've collected a few relatively unknown favorites (with some lovely high-profile ladies to keep them company) in the gallery below.

Over the last 10 years, winners have been from countries like China, India, Israel and Iceland. Who's your pick for the winner? Do you think it's time for a semi-obscure nation's representative to take the crown? We'll all be watching on December 13 to see who claims the crown.