It's a big wide world, and you'll never see it all - but there are some travel destinations that you can't afford to miss. Trouble is, not all of them are places that you might have heard of. These unknown holiday destinations for 2024 might not be on everyones list - but that makes them all the more worth visiting. 

For each country, I've included my pick of luxury accommodation to inspire you holiday-planning. Ranging from colonial hotels, private islands and remote yurts, there's something a little bit different - without compromising on comfort or style.

Nicaragua

I'll kick off our list with Central America's largest and safest countries - which is also one of it's best preserved and most unique.

The land of lakes and volcanoes is a subtropical paradise, which is ripe for a visit no matter the time of year. There's something for everything - grand colonial cities like Granada and León for the city man, stunning volcano hikes like Concepción for the outdoorsman, and gorgeous beaches of San Juan del Sur for those who need a break.

For surfers, we recommend the waves of Playa Maderas. You can also unleash your inner adrenaline junkie with a surf down Cerro Negro - an active volcano - where you can hit speeds of up to 60mph.

There is plenty to do, and also plenty to try. Moreish organic coffee and local treats like nacatamales (steamed parcels of corn dough, stuffed with marinated pork or chicken, rice, chillies and olives) and vigirón (a street food, combining crispy fried pork, boiled cassava and delicious cabbage salad) will bring your taste buds to life.

On top of that, you can expect a fine selection of rums. One of my personal favourites, Flor de Caña, is an excellent sipping rum with notes of toffee apple and buttery vanilla - and for those who want to *properly prepare* for their holiday, you can grab a bottle from Amazon for a sneak peek of what's in store.

Canali Island - Nicaragua

For the ultimate luxury experience, one can even book a small Caribbean island to themselves - with an ultra-all-inclusive experience. Calala Island provides a personal all-day bar, pool-side dining, tasting menus from the executive chef, fishing, snorkeling, baby turtles and more…

Kyrgyzstan

You've probably never visited Kyrgyzstan, and it's likely that you've never had to try and spell it. This hidden gem is one of the friendliest and most hospitable countries in Central Asia. It's truly diverse, known for it's stunning mountain scenery and the often nomadic way of life of many of it's people.

In more recent years, Kyrgyzstan has gained recognition for adventure tourism. You can get your kicks with skiing, paragliding, hiking, mountaineering and white water rafting amongst untouched panoramic landscapes.

Most unique is the chance to experience the welcoming hospitality of nomadic lifestyle of locals, staying in traditional yurts and heartily authentic Kyrgyz cuisine. Sip on fragrant tea and listen to tales of folklore and traditional music.

From lush grasslands to snow-capped mountains, dry deserts to the historic markets and bazaars of Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan is an untapped treasure trove of experiences and discoveries.

Remote Forgotten Rivers

Our pick of luxury accommodation is the remote eco-glamping resort of Remote Forgotten Rivers in Ak-Say, featuring luxury tents a coffee shop and bar, nestled on the great Issyk Kul lake. An undisturbed paradise in which to unwind, this is an Instagram-worthy haven where you can truly get away from it all.

Laos

You might have skipped it on your gap year to South East Asia, but there's still have time to put Laos on your list. Laid-back and almost forgotten compared to it's neighbors, Thailand and Vietnam, this stunning country is one of the continents best-kept secrets.

Wild to the point of untouched, it's known for serene landscapes, lush rice-fields, stunning mountains and the mighty Mekong River. Not only that, but Laos is a fascinating cultural haven. It's choc-a-bloc with Ancient Wats (temples), royal palaces and the must-visit UNESCO site of Luang Prabang.

Get up close and personal with local life in Vientiane's night markets, restaurants and street foods for a blistering selection of delicacies - grilled meats, sticky rice, mouth-watering chillis, pounded salads, roasted duck and more…

Riverside Boutique Hotel

We've chosen the Riverside Boutique Resort as our recommended place to stay. Facing the banks of the Song River and surrounded by spectacular mountain ridges, it has a distinctly French touch and is surely amongst the finest hotels of Vang Vieng.

Syros, Greece

For an alternative to the well-trodden paths of Santorini and Mykonos, I've chosen Syros - an overlooked Greek island in the Cyclades which still feels relatively undiscovered.

Neoclassical architecture and Venetian style mansions are back-dropped by golden green grapevines, and surrounded at all times, of course, by the idyllic Mediterranean sea. Whether you want to wander rugged hillsides, visit little fishing villages or swim in crystal clear waters, this is the perfect summer getaway.

A half hour ferry from the busier Mykonos, it features a picturesque port, which peels off down a rolling hillside to the ocean. For foodies, the farm-to-fork cuisine is sure to delight, with a selection of elegant restaurants, traditional taverns and delightful cafes.

Hotel Aristide

Our uncontested choice of accommodation is the Hotel Aristide, a luxurious eco-friendly resort which has all the modern comforts of a modern hotel with delicate and fancy final touches. A boutique hideaway with only nine suites, it’s natural interiors, fascinating art, local delicacies and wines all exude class.

Closing Thoughts: Unknown Holiday Destinations

The world is brimming with undiscovered gems ready to explore. Whilst these destinations may not be the first that come to mind, they are exclusive, charming and ready to offer everything you need from the perfect getaway.

And even in these far-flung corners of the world, there's no shortage of luxury - if you know where to look. Take a step off the beaten path when you plan your next holiday, and embrace your inner explorer - with a little help from Suave & Debonair. You can thank us later!