Russia's Bitter Chill (Europe | Russian Chill)
Much has changed in Russia since the end of Soviet rule. But the mysterious death of former KGB spy Alexander Litvinenko, a recently vocal critic of the Kremlin, has raised fears among the country's new dissidents

Dissident Voices (Europe | Russian Chill)
Others who have spoken out against the Moscow line


Uncertain Alliance (Europe | NATO)
Difficulties in Afghanistan make questions about NATO's post-cold war role more urgent than ever


The Five Rules For A Thriving Museum (Business | Museums)
Fuelled by a new savvy for marketing and brand-building, it's boom time for Europe's top museums. A guide to luring crowds — and cash

The New Wireless Tangle (Business | Telecoms)
Cellphone services are gearing up for a fight with handset makers — and it's all about Wi-Fi


Don't Be A Stranger (Notebook | France)
A new web site helps Parisians get to know each other

A President In Isolation (Notebook | Letters)

Living In A Dream World (Check In)
Pamper yourself at Hautel Couture's new Bangkok hotel

From Russia, We Love (Tech Watch)
Surprise results are in store with the new Lomo camera

A Long Walk To Justice (Next Time You're In ... Johannesburg)
Johannesburg's new Constitutional Court is an inspiring legacy

Tent City (Diversions)
A touring camp replica draws attention to those made homeless by war, disaster or famine

Small Sips (Grapevine)
TIME samples some of the best Champagnes from small producers

Fine Lines (Time Traveler)
Enjoy the comfort of travelling by train on an asia-pacific holiday

Spender Bender (The Cost-Of-Living-It-Up Index)
An over-the-top tour with private jets, lavish suites and limousines, is the ideal Christmas present for those who have everything

That Personal Touch (Style Watch)
A selection of customizable household accessories, from malleable vases to Lego-like furniture


Feast From Cover to Cover (Arts | Chef's Tales)
A taste of the latest in food memoirs, a thriving literary genre

Best Faces Forward (Arts | Exhibition)
Two Paris exhibitions show how everybody who was anybody loved to have themselves done in oils