Immerse yourself in this week's Life & Arts stories, and enrich your weekend with fresh perspectives and cultural discovery.

It’s never too early to sort your holiday shopping. The HTSI gift guide has a present for every type — from globetrotters and gadget gurus to gardeners and gourmets. Free to read with your FT account.

Get started with these highlights:

17 Presents for fashionable women who can't resist Alaïa

17 gifts for the midlife male (includes an Aston Martin)

15 gifts for globetrotters who still love the scent of home

15 gadgets for tech heads – who love Jaws and juicing

Appetites is your go-to hub for food and drink coverage, led by our all-star roster — including Tim Hayward, Jancis Robinson, Marina O'Loughlin, and Jay Rayner. Featuring recipes, destination dining and expert guides, explore the hub on FT.com or find the latest articles in Food & Drink on the FT app.

John Thornhill – my love letter to Burgundy

The FT innovation editor on the quiet charms of the French heartland he calls his home from home

On a slow train across Mongolia

The thrilling punch of a poitín cocktail

Former MI6 chief Richard Moore: Britain must regain the ‘power of example’

The outgoing head of the Secret Intelligence Service on the rise of China, why Putin is not interested in talks — and how screen spies aren’t always far from the truth

How Norway jeopardised its integrity overnight

Is human imitation the right goal for technology?