Sophie Arie
Europe
We get to grips with the Belgian PM's colourful sense of style. Plus a Q&A with European Commissioner Karel de Gucht and news from Lisbon and Liechtenstein.
Shelf satisfying
With competition from giants and online sellers, independent bookshops are struggling. Yet, one London gem is a model for survival, proving that a focus on expertise and curation can ensure a bright future.
Ripping yarn
Harris Tweed is woven in a beautiful setting by workers in their homes. But all is not idyllic. With its largest mill closed, it’s crunch time for the iconic Scottish business.
A better blueprint
Monocle’s 10 manifestos for the year ahead offer solutions for everything from urban renewal and education to soft power and healthcare, providing a blueprint for re-engaging communities and creating better cities.
Going south
Montpellier is France's fastest-growing city, ranking as one of the best for business. It supports new ventures and hi-tech companies, and has an enviable quality of life to boot.
After the storm
The Arab Spring started in Tunisia. But what happens after you’ve dislodged your dictator? We report from a nation fizzing with the energy that comes with sudden freedom.
Winter Military World Games
The first Winter Military World Games took place in March in Valle d'Aosta, Italy, giving armed forces of the world a chance to bond with each other and promote peace through sport. Monocle was…
Expo 33: War minus the shooting
The first winter military world games in Valle D'Aosta, Italy, gave armed forces a chance to bond and promote peace through sport. Monocle was there, cheering from the sidelines.
Urban Age Conference
Istanbul, a thriving megacity at the crossroads between East and West, is at a critical moment in its long and rich history. Monocle reports from the Urban Age conference, organised by the London School…
Coming home
Spain is offering citizenship to the descendants of those who fled its Civil War and the Franco regime. Should other nations with ageing populations do more to encourage their diaspora to return home?
