It's Lonely at the Top (Cover Story)
How the election became a referendum on an isolated President—and how it is likely to reshape American politics


Not the Retiring Type
Malaysia's former leader, Mahathir Mohamad, is taking on his successor in a rancorous fight over the future of the nation

"I'm being told you mustn't criticize the Prime Minister" (Interview)
TIME talks to former Malaysian leader Mahathir Mohamad

Breaking Up Is Easy To Do
In China, the hot new trend is "flash divorce," as women cut loose their cheating husbands


A Murder for the Movies
Eight suspects go on trial in one of Hong Kong's most sensational killings

Milestones

Letters
Asia's Environmental Crisis

America by the Numbers
At the beginning of its fourth century, America is more colorful, still uncrowded, purple in its politics and complicated in its beliefs. An illustrated guide to the nation's essential truths


Grand Designs (Check In)
Singapore's newest presidential suites have everything an entourage could ask for

Retinal Byrne (Curtain Raiser)
A gallery of photographs by former Talking Heads frontman David Byrne opens in Manila

Material Pleasures (Style Watch)
Bangkok's new fashion houses take the local scene upscale

Capital Gains (After Dark)
With Beijing getting ready to host the Olympic games, everything from tapas joints to decadent martini lounges is finally on the menu