Quality of Life
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Observation
An alluring first impression or a tempting parting glance? For Tyler Brûlé it was the latter, sparking dreams of relocating Monocle to Berlin and finding a perfect summer retreat in the German capital.
Asia
Why English-style village shops are popping up in rural China and how the hutongs of Beijing may be given a reprieve. Plus, the latest figures on who is living the longest.
Europe
Stockholm starts doing it for the kids, Helsinki talks rubbish, and Turkey stops smoking.
50 things to improve your life
Our 2009 global round-up of the people, pursuits, places and pets to improve the way you live, work, rest, commute and communicate.
Villa de Leyva
This small colonial town offers great opportunities for overseas buyers thanks to the ease and low cost of purchasing property. It is an enclave of painters, writers and drop-outs, who have flocked here.
Paradise regained
Born from socialist ideals, the appeal of the kibbutzim has faded over the years. To survive, they’ve become profit-making cooperatives, attracting Israelis back with a higher standard of living.
Observation
In London, a lack of innovative architecture stems not just from developers but from building regulators crushing creativity. On the eve of our Quality of Life Survey, Tyler Brûlé offers some solutions.
Constant and noble
Young creatives have set up shop in higgledy-piggledy Turnacibasi Sokak. It’s also a pleasant place to buy antiques, vintage records, homeware and reclaimed furniture or enjoy a steam and massage at the hamam.
Northern IJ Bank
Canals to sail on, traditional wooden houses to choose from and a nearby creative hub are just some reasons to move to Northern IJ Bank. With planned developments, it’s an area to watch.
El Korba, Heliopolis
Amid Cairo's glorious chaos, this Heliopolis suburb offers elegant arcades, bookshops and flower stalls — proof that the Egyptian capital's charms reward those who look closer.
