James Chambers
The cultural agenda for autumn 2024
Haute couture on the big screen, kiosk culture in the US and a Thai filmmaker’s Paris presence.

Is neutrality coming to an end as politicians look to put Thailand back on the map?
As geopolitical schisms widen, will an intermittent democracy with growing regional clout continue to conciliate – or is it time to take sides? Monocle meets the diplomats who will decide.

The Philippines’ infrastructure revolution has an unlikely architect
How did the CEO of a brand best known for its pilsner become the architect of the Philippines’ infrastructure revolution?

Why the ubiquitous Toyota Alphard may soon have competition
The stories you should be paying attention to – and the ones you might have missed.

At the front
What’s on Monocle’s agenda for September, Algeria’s election and the Asian Nato.

How Thailand’s backpacker island is remaining authentic in the spotlight
The Thai island of Koh Samui is shedding its reputation as backpacker bait with a growing roster of seemly hotels, restaurants and bars – all without compromising its laidback lifestyle.

Business agenda: The case for democratising aviation and the magazine business in Manila
How democratising aviation could help the industry spread its wings. Plus: mags in Manila.

My life as a vending machine
Currently serving 250,000 drinks a day, Tao Bin has become a staple in Thai malls, hospitals and offices since the brand launched in 2021. The machines boast freshly ground coffee, fizzy lemonades, protein shakes and…

The Opener
How to live: The Broader View Go the distance Tyler BrĂ»lĂ© on why taking a step back can give you deeper, more insightful perspectives. As we finalise our May edition and ink hits paper at…

The Opener
A conversation with Chris Black, co-host of the How Long Gone podcast, ecological risk in the South Atlantic, plus updates from our correspondents around the world.
