Affairs
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Europe
Relations between Poland and Russia thaw, the new get-out-of-jail card for pious prisoners in Georgia, plus Malta's version of the World Cup - for nations that don't exist.
Asia
The Malaysian PM's motorcade, Japan's special town for pensioners, and how the Haitian earthquake became a chance for Taiwan to make its mark.
Observation
When volcanic ash stranded Monocle staff, there were far worse places to be than Hong Kong. Its can-do attitude and impeccable service vindicated our decision to open our new Asia bureau there.
Defence
NATO notices the Cold War is over and devises a new navy strategy. The US Army eyes the phone app market and in Ukraine, Russia is allowed to train its jet pilots.
Up for the cup
The World Cup is a million different stories in one. As the tournament gets under way, Monocle looks at how players, coaches, companies and fans from all over the globe have been getting ready.
Acting funny
Big-league comedian and film director Takeshi “Beat” Kitano emerged from working-class roots to fame with his TV programmes and gangster films. This year, he has published his autobiography.
French revision
Napoleon sold off Louisiana in 1803 but the French government is promoting Gallic culture in the former colonial state, funding a new school and getting Paris headlines on local radio stations.
Americas
Socialist shopping in Venezuela, new rules for airbrushing ads in Brazil, and our column from Washington.
Sink or swim
After suffering exile and imprisonment under the previous dictatorship, President Mohamed Nasheed brought democracy to the Maldives in 2008. But can this British-educated leader keep his nation afloat?
Alameda
Seville's parkside Alameda district is a perfect place for a second home. It boasts excellent transport links, sunshine and famous cocktail bars, plus plenty of old-world townhouse apartments at great prices.
