Affairs
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What’s next?
From fashion and art to politics, media and governance, Monocle meets eight frontrunners to discuss their successes so far and the fresh challenges for the year ahead.
Consuls and carols
Diplomacy requires proficient hosting, especially during Christmas. We visit the festive residences of the Czech, Danish and Italian ambassadors to discover the importance of time-old traditions and a talented, patriotic chef.
Asia Pacific
Australia’s latest prime minister must make some tough decisions. Plus: Vietnam’s property boom.
Africa/Middle East
How Qatar can shake off its infamous reputation and Durban’s renaissance in South Africa.
Europe
What should be on the UK government’s agenda (Brexit aside) and Austria’s provocative foreign minister.
The time is now
It’s time to consider the role of the diplomat and the use of wining and dining in soft power. Plus, our Travel Top 50, a tempting gift guide and plenty of potted plants.
Power play
Monocle’s annual Soft Power Survey charts the strengths and weaknesses of national brands and the changing landscape of cultural influence. How do the hard truths of politics affect nations’ softer sides?
A new leaf
Want to spruce up your barren balcony or bare window box? Look no further as we round up the most luscious – and adventurous – botanical offerings for the home and garden.
Observation
Tyler Brûlé sees parallels between Denmark’s ‘hygge’ and investment – both financial and emotional – in Christmas.
Lashings of schlager
What is ‘schlager’? Our Culture editor, smelling faintly of beer and with party music still ringing in his ears, has emerged from Dortmund’s Grosse Westfalenhalle with the answer. Boom!
