Monocle on Sunday Global round-up: London, Tokyo and New Delhi
Nov 9, 2025
Vincent McAviney, a seasoned political correspondent, and Isabel Hilton, founder of China Dialogue, join to dissect pressing global issues. Tyler Brûlé shares insights from Tokyo on hospitality trends and the impact of overtourism. Lindy Prickett reports on New Delhi's severe winter smog and its effects on citizens. The guests delve into India’s pivotal role at COP30, highlighting its renewable ambitions, while discussing international trade tensions. They also touch on the implications of Donald Trump's cognitive state on leadership.
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Taking A Law Exam Under AI Proctoring
- Vincent McAviney recounted cramming for a modern computer-based law exam watched by webcam and AI proctoring him at home.
- He described the jarring loss of his many open browser tabs and the unfamiliar experience of non-handwritten testing.
Ryokan Revival Near Mount Fuji
- Tyler Brûlé described staying at Gora Kadan, a modern ryokan near Mount Fuji, to illustrate Japanese hospitality traditions updated for international guests.
- He contrasted original ryokan quirks with thoughtful design elements like sight lines, lighting and mature landscaping that create serene arrival experiences.
Creative Work Is A Team Sport
- Tyler argued creativity is a team sport and modern media over-emphasises individual personal brands over collaborative craft.
- He warned that building solo followings undermines the fellowship needed to create enduring cultural work.