Fiona Wilson
The Opener
Monocle has a network of correspondents in cities around the world. Our brief dispatches include good news for pedestrians in Bangkok, a smart hotel in Tokyo and transformed spaces in Los Angeles.
Hit your stride
We hope that these diverse ideas might inspire you to be ambitious, be serious about having fun – and to get out there, put your best foot forward and go for it.
Monocle’s Quality of Life survey 2023: The world’s most liveable cities
This year’s survey of the best places to enjoy all that life offers finds a world grappling with new urban challenges.
On the up
From a forward-looking emirate to coastal enclaves in Mexico and Morocco, these cities are emerging from the pandemic having made bold improvements and attracted new residents.
Local heroes
Independent shops from Hong Kong to Madrid prove that knowing customers by name and fostering genuine community connections remains the foundation of thriving neighbourhood businesses.
Cillit Bangsy
Clean and Art is helping to keep Tokyo’s streets free from graffiti. Monocle joins the team restoring order to the urban landscape.
Prime movers
The idea of changing a city for the better might be daunting but individuals with vision and initiative can make a meaningful difference.
Quick smart
A new generation of restaurants is sating customers' hunger for fast, filling bites. We meet three ventures turning tasty takeaways into fine art.
Phoenix rising Global
As Japanese accents appear in Oslo and Italian touches take root in Tokyo, a familial Lebanese home has been rebuilt following a devastating fire.
Bigger picture
The Jun Group is behind some of Japan’s most inspiring labels. We meet the president of the company selling more than just clothes.
