On The Edge Of Its Seat (Cover: Italy Vs. China)
Italy's small firms and artisans may have a history of beautiful craftsmanship, but they're losing the fight to China

Hot Chair (Cover: Italy Vs. China)
Anji used to farm bamboo and tea. Now the Chinese town's manufacturing strength is challenging Europe

'Europe Found Itself Unprepared' (Interview)
TIME talks with Italian Finance Minister Giulio Tremonti


Africa's Game of Follow the Leader
Africa's problems often begin at the top, but the solutions lie deeper, says TIME's Simon Robinson


10 Questions For Renee Fleming (Interview)
The American soprano talks to TIME about Christmas, chocolate and singing in Elvish


Hostage To Fortune
Amy Tan shuns family dramas for political dilemmas in a wry look at tourists held hostage abroad


Attracting Unwelcome Interest (Notebook / Bizwatch)
Europe disagrees over plans for 'inflation-busting' rate hikes

How to Save a Life (Notebook / Letters)

Follow The Money
The practice of migrant workers sending cash to families back home is increasing. A look at how the money flows impact the developing world


Funk from Junk (Style Watch)
If you can't get to Manoonphol's latest treasures, he might come to you

Camp It Up (Check In)
Take the rough with the smooth with a new brand of tented community

Amuse Bouche (Hit The Deck)
Top floor food arrives at one of Hong Kong's most famous restaurants

Building on the Past (Time Traveler)
Can the crumbling splendors of Chettinad, India become a tourist draw?