It’s easy to become stuck in a groove, doing things the same old way. Monocle’s editor in chief, Andrew Tuck, throws down the challenge: make this the month that you step back out there and do something differently – even if it is just getting a sharp, new haircut.

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.

It’s a tough, lonely job and your co-workers are always bleating. So why are students flocking to Andalusia’s shepherd school?

The US poet laureate believes that poetry can help us to live more fully. That’s why she is bringing it into America’s national parks.

Meet the island hoppers training the next generation of pilots.

Ed Stocker hails a ride in Hamburg, a city determined to be the testing ground for autonomous vehicles.

The Japanese garden kickstarting global peace talks, working from home in Barbados and why Russia’s isolation on the world stage is a conscious choice.

The latest in business from beekeeping biologists and e-bike pioneers to Italian fashion designers and airlines, delivering first-class customer experiences.

James Chambers on a new theatre and performing arts space in Bangkok that’s putting emerging artists centre stage.

France is known for its buzzy newsstands but the appetite for the printed page extends well beyond city kiosks. We also take the road less travelled by visiting a trailblazing maps company in Seattle.

The second half of this year is packed with must-see design events, architectural projects and exhibitions. We round up nine essential stops for those planning a design-minded itinerary for 2023’s home stretch. 

Tied both historically and economically to Russia and China, democratic Mongolia is navigating tricky terrain as it looks West.

The small Southeast Asian nation’s evergreen president is steering his country from brutal occupation to the promise of the road ahead.

Every onboard innovation is enthused over at the Aircraft Interiors Expo, where the future of the in-flight experience takes shape.

An electric sea-glider company is on the cusp of making the jump from prototype to reality.

How Volvo Penta is powering up to electrify the lifestyle boating sector.

Due to regulation, collaboration and quality control, Portugal is top of Europe’s bicycle supply chain. Now it just needs to inspire its citizens to get in the saddle.

It’s time to liberate movies from the small screen. We visit five newly opened or renovated cinemas that are bringing communities together and celebrating the wonder of film.

Amid media crackdowns in Iran, we hear from a broadcaster channelling its efforts into making the voice of a nation heard.

Meet the man making phone-free spaces happen – in concerts, schools and even courtrooms.

September’s essential reading, watching and listening includes a US musical mock-doc, an overlooked Georgian artist’s oeuvre and a glorious tribute to the father of bossa nova.

With its loveable Microlino, a pioneering family business is proving that the best things really can come in small packages.

A neglected workers’ housing project by Alvar Aalto is being lovingly revived by design-minded Finns.

From its lively HQ-cum-gallery in one of Rome’s most imposing buildings to its modern Tuscan factory where workers are viewed as artisans, Fendi is proving itself a determinedly transparent and progressive brand as it continues to set standards in luxury fashion.

From specialist cycling gear and sustainably made backpacks to running shoes that will put a spring in your step, these hardworking pieces will help you get up and go.

Don’t let the changing weather stop you from getting out there. With the right clothes, you’ll be good to go come rain or shine.

As new Orient Express services are set to launch, authenticity is becoming the watchword for operators. Monocle boards a Belmond train bound for Paris to discover the enduring appeal of these timeless journeys.

Melbourne clinks glasses at its latest cocktail bar, Toronto continues to charm and Berlin positively sizzles with a homage to the city’s golden era and a fire-focused kitchen. Here’s what’s on the menu in the world of food this month.

Just an hour’s drive from Japan’s capital is a secluded stay where guests can get back to nature.

Innovative architectural makeovers in Mexico and the rebirth of a Marrakech hotspot beckon discerning travellers in our round-up of what’s new for the world of hospitality. Prepare to feel restored.

Our pick of graceful gadgets, from a foldable upgrade to a quiet revolution, a smarter timepiece and a sweeter ride.

To get closer to Mallorca’s wild beauty, immerse yourself in the earthy tones and ambiance of Es Racó d’Artà – a finca whose farm produce, surrounding leafy slopes and shimmering pools delight and soothe in equal measure.

Opportunity and discovery are everywhere. But sometimes we can lack a little imagination when it comes to making the most of it. Allow us to step in with some humble proposals that are designed to give you some momentum, ranging from small steps, such as getting your groom on and experiencing the camaraderie of being a team player, to life-changing explorations of foreign lands or finally taking the plunge with that long-dormant business idea. 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.