Paddy Butler
Talking shop
From Tokyo's Isetan to Bogotá's design studios, the world's most forward-thinking retailers are proving that bricks-and-mortar shopping remains indispensable — for neighbourhoods, culture and commerce alike.
The opener
We decode people's desire for casual attire, lap up Korean food diplomacy and take a trip down memory lane in Canada.
Shapely numbers
From furnishings and fixtures to full refurbishments, we celebrate 50 winning design innovations.
Diplomacy
Promoting the Spanish tongue, Finnish education models and the Nobel Peace prize winner whose women’s movement helped end Liberia’s civil war.
Politics
New Zealand makes it harder to get into the country, while Finland tries to get people back to work.
Defence
The nations that have their own military broadcasters, plus the Finnish Jaeger Brigade shows off its Arctic-combat skills.
Diplomacy
Checking in with the ambassador in Rome, why Japan is looking to Latin America and the art of the ambassadorial Christmas card.
Travel Top 50
A guide to aviation's high-fliers, rail carriages with class, masterful hoteliers and service stars the world over
