In this edition we consider the systems and logistical threads that allow us to make those all-important connections, whether they are at the airport, at the railway station or in the art gallery.

Isolated and challenged financially, Armenia faces a set of problems common to many post-Soviet nations. But in the capital of Yerevan, a new generation of tech-savvy entrepreneurs is forging exciting links with the outside world.

Not far from the sun loungers and beach bars of this holiday hotspot, a stretch of no-man’s land is forever 1974. It marks the frontier policed by the UN’s longest-established peacekeeping force, where success is measured in non-events.

Playing a vital role in linking isolated populations to the outside world, these three airlines are reliant on subsidies, making their existence contentious. But for the wounded rancher or long-distance oil-worker they are indispensable.

Historically isolated from the rest of Japan, Kanazawa’s economy is now expanding thanks to a new rail link to Tokyo. But its inhabitants are determined to preserve the city’s unique traditions and distinctive architecture.

EmQuartier is the sparkling centrepiece of Bangkok’s new luxury retail district. Its visionary CEO tells Monocle why it’s more like a movie blockbuster than a shopping mall.

Transporting works of art is a delicate, high-value business. As the sector expands, Monocle explored the fine art of moving priceless paintings and sculptures around the world.

Set to revolutionise Toronto’s transport network, new air- rail connection UP Express is made to be business-traveller friendly. And with an aesthetic influenced by the Canadian landscape and some sharp uniforms, it looks the part, too.

There is something about creating a seat for the great outdoors that leaves too many designers lost in a hessian-upholstered haze. We’re glad to see, then, that there are makers of alfresco furniture that remain true to the ethos of clean lines, hardwearing materials and quality construction that defines enduring classics.

An innate understanding of runners and their needs paired with a keen eye for design means new Boston athletic brand Tracksmith is going places – fast.

In spite of turbulent economic times, new shoots of a Greek fashion revival are bringing fresh impetus into the nation’s creative industries and helping to preserve traditional techniques.

On the road with Danish prime minister Helle Thorning-Schmidt, Spanish emigration and the Turkish elections

What makes Haiti president Michel Martelly's style so sharp? Plus Mexican peacekeeping and Toronto's John Tory.

China and Kazakhstan compete to host the Winter Olympics and Jakarta gets an artistic makeover.

Tracking the risk of migration in Eritrea and the latest on the battle for the Western Sahara.

Fiji Airways resumes services to New Zealand and Australia trials a novel approach to curbing kangaroos.

The Arab League takes steps to improve stability in the region and Germany ups its tank count.

Stepping into the office of Adrian Farrell, Ireland's consul general to Texas and the Midwest.

Global shipping gets innovative, the rise of saké and furniture made from aircraft parts.

Choice cuts from the world's creative minds.

We meet Rodman Primack, the design director of Miami/Basel, and tour the world's auction houses.

This month's audio and visual highlights.

From the contemporary to the classic, we round up all the highlights from this year's Salone del Mobile in Milan.

Shorts, shoes and sharp new jackets.

Crossing the River Thames to south London reveals a burgeoning food scene. Elsewhere this issue we unearth must-try dining spots in Porto, Singapore, Toronto and Paris, as well as a Milanese meal to remember.

Martin Roth, director of the Victoria and Albert Museum, has broadened the institution’s artistic scope in the four years he has been in charge. And he’s got a plan for the next 10: championing culture’s crucial role in society.

Characterised by its tiny fleet and dolphin-adorned livery, Japan’s Amakusa Airline takes a quirky line in attracting new customers.

When such an unusual and well-drawn film is nominated for an Oscar, you wonder where it came from. That was the case with 2015’s ‘The Dam Keeper’, an allegorical animation dreamt up by Robert Kondo and Dice Tsutsumi. Despite its San Francisco postcode, their Tonko House animation studio prioritises hand-crafted productions over technology; Monocle paid a visit to the chalkboard.

From US whiskey that offers a gulp of the gold-rush era to scented natural candles, June's selection is a fulsome blend of naughty and nice treats. It's the perfect spread to kickstart your summer spree.

From a retreat in the heart of the Tasmanian wilderness to the heights of urban hospitality in Hong Kong and New York, we round up the essential travel experiences worthy of your air miles right now.

La Marzocco’s espresso machines enjoy a reputation for quality and innovation.

Once a hotbed of political foment, Mexico City’s Juárez district has been in decline for a number of decades. But now young professionals are changing the neighbourhood, drawn to its central location and solid housing stock.

Between surfing and helping out his Olympian mum, chef Guy Turland serves a healthy blend of European and Pacific classics to Bondi diners.

Renowned Chilean novelist Isabel Allende enjoys dishes that ignite her imagination.

It might be a panda en route to a zoo or cashmere jumpers heading for Beijing or Boston. But regardless of value there is a good chance it is going to be shipped through Hong Kong International Airport’s cargo hub.

Editor in chief Tyler Brûlé was impressed by the free rein afforded to cyclists on a recent trip to Vienna. Does the refreshing lack of helmets on show suggest a legislation blueprint for other cities?