COVER

How to Save Afghanistan (World)

As violence subsides in Iraq, it's surging in Afghanistan. A veteran diplomat and student of the country on what it really needs — and why more troops won't help

ASIA

Nuclear Brinksmanship

By pushing a controversial atomic-power deal, India's Prime Minister has put his government on the firing line

UNITED STATES

Frenemies (Campaign '08)

John McCain has defied George W. Bush more than any other Republican, yet can't escape his shadow. An intimate look at the uneasy alliance that could cost McCain the election

GLOBAL BUSINESS

OLYMPIC PREVIEW

Beijing Magic

On the eve of the Summer Games, China's capital is buzzing with a hot cultural scene, creative entrepreneurs and a collection of eye-popping buildings. But our Beijing bureau chief remembers how it used to be

GLOBAL ADVISER

Post Modern (Diversions)

For extreme philatelists, oddball stamps are pushing the envelope

A New Rub (Living It Up)

Tibetan salt and mud from the Himalayas put a new spin on spas

Open Heart Surgeon (Next Time You're in ... Auckland)

A doctor-turned-café proprietor caters to Auckland's literati

Religious Experience (On Show)

The Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia beautifully illuminates how the faith has influenced and enriched cultures worldwide

LETTERS