Technology and philosophy

Saturday, June 20, 2026

Vietnam Unveils $6.5B Rail Link: First in 70 Years from HCMC to Mekong Delta

A railway spanning 175 kilometers, valued at over VND171 trillion (US$6.5 billion), is being planned between Ho Chi Minh City and Can Tho, marking the Mekong Delta region of Vietnam with its initial train connection in almost seventy years.

The project management committee for the My Thuan initiative, responsible for preparing the preliminary feasibility report sent to the Ministry of Construction, has suggested financing the entire railway line using government funding. The route would start from An Binh Station in Di An District of Ho Chi Minh City and terminate at Can Tho Station in Hung Phu District of Can Tho, covering a distance of 175.2 kilometers across Ho Chi Minh City, Tay Ninh, Dong Thap, Vinh Long, and Can Tho.

Passenger services would operate at a maximum designed speed of 160 kilometers per hour, while cargo trains would travel at 120 km/h. There would be 12 stops and three maintenance facilities throughout the route. The initial stage would feature a single line using the standard 1,435 mm rail width, which would eventually be expanded to a dual-track system.

Can Tho is often regarded as the capital of Vietnam's Mekong Delta region, known as the nation's primary rice producer and a major contributor to its seafood and fruit exports.

The delta ceased to have a railway after the Saigon-My Tho line from the French colonial period shut down near 1958. Now, goods and passengers mainly travel through heavily crowded roads and rivers to get to Ho Chi Minh City and its harbors.

According to the board's research, the HCMC-Can Tho route is expected to manage approximately 1.46 billion tons of cargo and over 326 million passenger journeys each year by 2050, with rail potentially handling around 23 million tons and 16 million travels per annum.

A KTX train in South Korea travels at approximately 150-180 km/h. Photo by VnExpress/Anh Duy

The line forms part of a rail initiative Vietnam is advancing at an exceptional pace. At its core is the approximately $67 billion North-South high-speed railroad, a 1,541-kilometer route capable of reaching speeds up to 350 kilometers per hour, stretching from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, scheduled to start construction by the end of 2026. Meanwhile, the broader national network strategy outlines 25 routes covering around 6,354 kilometers.

The HCMC-Can Tho route is a traditional rail system designed for multiple types of traffic, not an actual high-speed line, yet it follows the same key timeline as the main project: both aim to be largely completed by 2035.

Approximately 56% of the route would run over bridges or viaducts, primarily passing through city zones, densely populated regions, rivers, and locations where it connects with current facilities, whereas the rest, amounting to 44%, would be built on embankments where the soil is solid and flood risks are lower. The first phase bridges would measure around 6.5 meters in width, featuring span lengths ranging from 24 meters up to 450 meters. At the Hau River location, the rail system would use the upcoming Can Tho 2 Bridge. The track will be powered using 25 kV AC electricity, with commuter train operations utilizing decentralized power electric multiple units, cargo transport handled by engine-pulled trains, and full implementation of fiber optic communication along with digital signaling systems.

The advisor presented two financial alternatives. Constructing a shared road bridge spanning approximately 4.7 kilometers at the Hau River crossing would result in an initial investment of roughly VND171.3 trillion ($6.51 billion), whereas building an independent railway bridge would increase this amount to around VND175.11 trillion ($6.65 billion). Referring to the scale of Vietnam's economy and its ability to secure funds, the advisor suggested financing the project through government resources.

Having been under development for over ten years, the initiative has now entered its most advanced phase. It will be submitted to the National Assembly for investment policy endorsement in August 2026, with preliminary engineering designs completed during the first quarter of 2028, land clearing beginning in the same period, and a construction company chosen to commence work in the third quarter.

The railway system of Vietnam will manage the route upon its inauguration.

South Korea's Kim Tae-Hyun Out of World Cup Group Stage

A report from the national team stated that Kim Tae-hyun suffered an ankle injury during a private training session held behind closed doors the day before. On the same day, he carried out personalized strengthening activities independently within the indoor gym. It is said that he sprained his left ankle while engaging in a 'rondo,' which is a type of ball-passing exercise. According to medical evaluations, Kim may not be able to take part in the three group-phase games at this World Cup.

According to FIFA rules, squads are allowed to swap out injured athletes for replacements within 24 hours prior to their initial World Cup game. Nevertheless, since it was confirmed that Kim Tae-hyun would be able to participate starting from the Round of 32, the squad chose not to bring in a replacement for him.

The South Korean national team entering this World Cup has drawn attention for its unreliable defense, which remains a major vulnerability. This issue has worsened with repeated injuries to crucial defenders. Kim Joo-sung from Hiroshima, who played a vital role in Hong Myung-bo’s lineup, was excluded from the final selection because of his injury. Similarly, Cho Yu-min of Sharjah had to pull out during a friendly game against Trinidad and Tobago in Salt Lake City, USA, last month following an injury.

Due to Kim Tae-hyun being sidelined, Lee Ki-hyuk of Gangwon is set to take up the role of left defender in the three-defender system during the encounter with the Czech Republic. Lee made an impression during the game against Trinidad and Tobago through his offensive efforts and precise passing, yet faced difficulties when facing strong opposition in the match against El Salvador. Additionally, there's a chance that Park Jin-seop from Jeonbuk might step into the lineup instead. If this happens, Park would likely serve as the central goalkeeper, allowing Kim Min-jae to shift to the defensive back position.

Besides Kim Tae-hyun, midfielder Bae Joon-ho from Stoke City is also anticipated to have difficulty participating in the match against the Czech Republic. Bae sprained his ankle following an aggressive slide challenge in the game versus Trinidad and Tobago. Since then, he has been undergoing individual rehabilitation efforts, and even on the day prior to the encounter with the Czech Republic, he was observed riding a bicycle independently rather than attending the team's practice session. It is expected that Bae will be fit for the subsequent match against Mexico.

Knicks' Perfect Championship Run Threatened by Presidential Drama: MS Now

The New York Knicks come back to Madison Square Garden with an extraordinary 13-game postseason winning run and have secured two victories toward the NBA title, yet some supporters fear that President Donald Trump might bring bad luck.

The president will attend In Game 3, returning to his home city, this has led to the cancellation of certain viewing events that had emerged across New York City throughout his team's playoff season. Panelists on MS NOW's "Morning Joe" questioned if his introduction of political partisanship might bring an end to the team's positive momentum.

Also Read: Within the aggressive group operating behind the effort to remove Lindsey Graham from Congress

I believe we conclude by turning our attention to tonight, which was supposed to be an enormous celebration," stated co-host Mika Brzezinski. "I'm talking about people celebrating inside and also outside of Madison Square Garden. There would have been both afterparties and before-parties, and the streets would have been full of happiness—so why is this still taking place?

It will still take place in New York City, but it won’t occur close to Madison Square Garden, which has been the center of these natural fan events—chaotic moments, quite amusing really. However, since President Trump has decided to be at tonight’s Game 3 of the NBA Finals, with the Knicks leading 2-0 against the San Antonio Spurs, such activities aren't possible anymore. And—you’re a Knicks fan. Many fans like you are very worried that, as the younger generation puts it, the energy surrounding this team is perfect, but Trump might... ruin it ."

Looking for additional updates on political developments? Visit Raw Story for the most recent news updates.

Reporter Pablo Torre showed concern over the president's presence and its potential effect on the Knicks' quest for their first championship since 1973.

They're hurtling toward a historical disaster if things continue like this," Torre remarked, "and listen, Knicks supporters, I was once one too, growing up just blocks away from the Garden. We've always been expecting the next misfortune, and if that misfortune happens to be the president walking in through the VIP entrance... tunnel That no fan can afford to attend, correct? I simply can’t stop thinking that sports, much like America, is facing an affordability issue today, and the clearest example of this is this story. You can't even be outside. Let alone inside, and so who is this aimed at? What is it really about?

I believed the Knicks belonged to our city, but it seems nothing truly is ours," Torre said. "Everything belongs to the same person whom you all have spent hours today guiding us through—from the Middle East to private prisons and, naturally, back to the question of whose birthday this is once more? It’s all his celebration, that’s what we’re discovering.

Recommended Links:

Heir Fights Dentist Over Beach Walk Near Medic’s Boathouse

Subscribe to our US Editor's Choice newsletter to receive the most significant exclusive reports

A minor legal conflict involving a dentist and an inheritor of a multimillion-dollar footwear business might change the regulations governing public access to beaches around the Great Lakes. Wisconsin .

When Paul Florsheim, the great-great grandson of the original owner of Florsheim Shoes, received a trespassing ticket and was charged $313 for taking his dogs for a walk near dentist Daniel Domagala's seaside home in Shorewood, he didn’t just accept the penalty like most individuals might have done.

Rather, he decided to challenge the decision in order for his case to be reviewed by the Wisconsin court. Supreme Court the top judicial authority in the state.

"My character is such that when faced with it, I do not retreat," Florsheim said to the. Wall Street Journal .

Domagala is recognized within Shorewood—a wealthy community situated along the lake's coastline—by locals. Michigan - for keeping an eye on the shoreline near his dock and employing alerts and notices to deter people from approaching too closely.

Florsheim, aged 66, has recently stepped down from his position as a university lecturer at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, and resides in a single-story home located only three houses away from Domagala.

A former teacher is passionate about walking dogs and loves going for walks on the shoreline with his two-year-old German Shepherd named Leo and his six-year-old Border Collie crossbreed, Rosie.

While taking his strolls, Florsheim frequently overlooked Domagala's notices stating, "PRIVATE PROPERTY BEYOND THIS SIGN" and "ONLY WATER ACCESS BEYOND THIS POINT," leading the local doctor to repeatedly contact law enforcement about his neighbor.

The community of Shorewood ultimately decided to issue Florsheim a trespass notice because of the regularity of the incidents.

Under Wisconsin regulations, individuals are permitted to wade, swim, or navigate boats in the Great Lakes’ waters; however, a definitive state Supreme Court decision from the early 1900s safeguards shoreline property owners against unauthorized entry onto their private lands.

Florsheim, who defended himself during his trial over the trespassing charge, claimed it was unreasonable that he could swim in the water near Domagala's home but wasn't permitted to stroll a short distance along the sandy beach.

The former professor failed in court and received a fairly small penalty, yet Judge Margo S Kirchner suggested that this might not mark the conclusion of the matter.

Kirchner stated that her decision against Florsheim was based on a 1923 Wisconsin Supreme Court ruling, where a property owner received preferential access to the shoreline of Lake Winnebago for watering his livestock.

The judge stated that she felt the over-100-year-old decision appeared relevant to this case, yet she pointed out that the precedent did not align with procedures used in other states.

"Maybe Doemel needs to be set aside," Kirchner stated, referring to the 1923 decision.

Florsheim stated to the Wall Street Journal that his initial aim was not to challenge a state Supreme Court decision or establish a new legal standard. It was simply his determined personality that led events to unfold this way, according to him.

From his perspective, Domagala stated in court that individuals regularly overlook his signals and carelessly relax on his land frequently, causing him significant annoyance.

"They act as though they own this place," he stated, confirming that he had to report people walking where they shouldn't approximately 50 times last summer.

The dentist further stated that he had never allowed Florsheim to set foot on his land, comparing the former professor's behavior to an act of trespassing. "Picture someone entering your home and claiming it isn’t yours," Domagala remarked.

It is yet uncertain whether the Wisconsin Supreme Court will accept the case, let alone if it will support the lower court's verdict and its own 1923 determination about priority shoreline access for landowners.

However, should the state's top court decide to take up Florsheim's case, the former professor will be significantly more ready, since he is currently being assisted by attorneys from the non-profit organization Midwest Environmental Advocates.

Chinese AI Police Tech: Monitoring Body, Mind, and Emotion

The international exhibition in Beijing highlights cameras capable of measuring vital signs and even determining the core motivation of suspects, according to equipment manufacturers.

Demonstrations at a recent law enforcement technology fair in Beijing revealed that Chinese artificial intelligence-powered devices can assist officers in evaluating the physical condition, psychological status, and potential danger posed by individuals under investigation.

Chinese companies showcasing their newest biometric equipment at the global law enforcement and counterterrorism technology exhibition stated that these technologies could lower the need for personnel within police departments and enhance operational effectiveness amidst... a lack of field personnel a deficiency in operational staff shortfall of patrol officers insufficient number of on-duty officials lack of ground-level enforcement personnel reduced availability of direct service agents limited presence of active duty officers inadequate staffing at the front line scarcity of deployed police force depletion of initial response units .

A three-day exhibition that concluded on Saturday sought to demonstrate cutting-edge policing technology available for purchase to law enforcement agencies within and beyond China. Alongside the fair, Indonesia has shown enthusiasm for Indonesia has taken an interest in Indonesia has demonstrated curiosity about Indonesia has indicated a desire regarding Indonesia has exhibited a keenness towards Indonesia has revealed a fascination with Indonesia has signaled an inclination toward Indonesia has displayed an openness to Indonesia has communicated an eagerness concerning Indonesia has made known an attraction to Chinese machinery, specifically anti-terrorism technology.

Are you curious about the major issues and developments happening globally? Find your answers here with SCMP Knowledge Our latest platform offering handpicked content including explanations, frequently asked questions, analysis, and visual graphics, delivered by our acclaimed team.

One of the exhibits featured a camera created by Tiandy, a video monitoring provider located in Tianjin, a city in northern China. This device is capable of evaluating key physiological indicators—such as heart rate, blood pressure, blood oxygen levels, and blood circulation speed—for up to six individuals simultaneously, as stated in the company’s demonstration.

It produced outcomes based on individuals positioned in front of the camera for approximately 10 seconds, claims from Tiandy stating an accuracy level exceeding 90 percent. During the showcase, the participants’ physiological data appeared on a display along with their real-time footage, where elevated blood pressure, pulse rates, or other irregular readings were marked in yellow or red.

The firm mentioned that the product worked most effectively in an interrogation lounge, where four cameras could monitor the physiological indicators of up to twenty-four individuals.

Tiandy mentioned that the technology has the capability to monitor the real-time location of detained individuals and alert authorities about unexpected health emergencies. Additionally, it can identify instances of improper law enforcement conduct violating established guidelines, like abandoning a detainee alone or conducting an interrogation without sufficient personnel present.

A different firm, Lianxin Technology, stated that its artificial intelligence-powered cameras along with a psychometric large language model (LLM) analyze facial characteristics to produce personality assessments, which have been implemented in over 30 police departments throughout China.

As stated in the company’s product manual, when an individual gazes into the camera for between eight and twelve seconds, the system produces a personality evaluation encompassing characteristics such as temperament, emotional resilience, potential health issues, fundamental drives, likelihood of engaging in criminal behavior, and indications of a possible psychological emergency.

The organization stated that the cognitive evaluation large language model was developed using 80 million human data points and has been officially recorded with the Cyberspace Administration of China Beijing's leading cyber security authority.

Lianxin Technology stated that their products originated from a lack of front-line personnel. According to the brochure, as law enforcement requirements kept increasing, officers faced "significant physical and psychological pressure" due to heavy workloads and exhaustion.

It did not clarify the reasons, stating instead that law enforcement questioning and investigation abilities were growing "weaker," and that the company's non-contact analysis could support interrogations and assist officers in making arrest decisions according to the suspect's risk factor.

A firm located in Hefei, central China, stated that it has moved away from conventional human supervision toward using intelligent devices for artificial intelligence-based surveillance. It employs cameras to record visuals and audio in order to assess signs related to mental well-being, emotional condition, personality traits, and moral character.

Products of Anhui Wuyu Security Technology are utilized by state and public safety organizations, customs checkpoints, and disciplinary supervision bodies across over 20 provincial regions in China, as stated on their official website. Furthermore, these tools have been implemented by specialized governmental departments, ranging from the armed forces to preschools, for evaluating prospective employees.

The firm mentioned that it employed video cameras to record facial skin reflections at various light wavelengths in order to examine blood alterations undetectable by the naked eye, later incorporating its algorithms to assess an individual's physical and mental state.

India Deploys Air Force to Secure Exam Papers Amid Scandal-Driven Protests

For the first time in history, the government has decided to use the Indian Air Force to deliver examination questions for the rescheduled entrance test on June 21.

India has implemented extraordinary steps to rebuild trust in its country's college entrance exam system following multiple controversies that sparked intense demonstrations by youth and increased scrutiny on the Prime Minister Narendra Modi 's government.

In the previous month, officials made an unusual decision by invalidating the outcomes of the medical entrance examination for over two million pupils following claims of extensive leaks of the test materials.

On the rescheduled exam date of June 21, authorities have stated that the Indian Air Force (IAF) will be used for the very first time to carry examination materials, as per sources aware of the situation.

Are you curious about the major issues and developments happening globally? Find your answers here with SCMP Knowledge Our latest platform featuring carefully selected content, including explanations, frequently asked questions, analysis, and visual graphics, presented by our acclaimed team.

Those responsible for developing the examinations would face close monitoring with limited use of mobile devices and communication tools, according to sources who wished to remain anonymous as the information had not been made official.

The government led by Modi is attempting to manage the consequences of the entrance exam scandal, while another issue concerning incorrect school grades related to an updated online system continues to develop.

Two concerns have sparked demonstrations from Generation Z in India and have been directed towards a political group known as the Cockroach Janta Party, demanding the resignation of the education minister.

Standardized tests serve as an essential pathway for students seeking admission to higher education institutions, securing employment opportunities, and enhancing the financial and societal standing of their households. The pressure is particularly intense because youth unemployment among those aged 25 to 29 is reported to be approximately 20 percent, as noted by Azim Premji University.

In order to maintain public trust, authorities have established regulated areas near the locations where test materials are printed, and limited the interaction and mobility of employees handling the exam content, according to officials.

New Delhi views the consequences as short-term and anticipates that the problems will be resolved. India's national investigative body, the Central Bureau of Investigation, has initiated an inquiry regarding the suspected leakage of exam papers for the medical entrance test.

The prime minister has taken personal interest in this matter," said Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan to journalists on Tuesday. "We will address the mistakes that happened and make sure the exam is held correctly.

The official hasn't answered calls for his resignation.

Serious safeguards

The use of fighter jets demonstrates the administration's commitment to protecting the examination materials following the breaches.

The Indian Air Force has decided to provide assistance through the military's aid-to-civil-authorities framework, as reported by sources involved in the issue. Most of the effort will involve using helicopters to deliver exam materials to over two dozen sites, they mentioned.

Certain reviewers argue that this does not constitute an effective allocation of the armed forces' capabilities.

"Institute of Advanced Financials isn't a delivery service," wrote former Air Vice Marshal Manmohan Bahadur in a recent article published on The Print, an internet-based news platform. He stated that the administration ought to rectify the shortcomings within the testing framework instead of depending on the air force to protect exam materials.

Leaders of Modi's opponents, headed by the opposing Indian National Congress party, have swiftly utilized these controversies to criticize his government. Political experts have similarly highlighted that matters like leaked examination papers weaken national institutions.

"Which belief could anyone hold in a system that fails to perform these fundamental tasks properly?" questioned Yamini Aiyar, a guest researcher at Brown University.

If students and parents ceased to believe that achievement was based on ability and equitable competition, the feeling of confidence and societal unity that maintained the system might begin to erode, she noted.

Eye: The Secret Suffolk Gem That's Taking the Spotlight

Tucked away within the verdant countryside and quiet roads of north Suffolk, the town of Eye It’s a standout attraction. The winding roads are filled with medieval half-timbered homes, along with Georgian and Victorian structures painted in hues of yellow, pink, and white. Overseeing all of this are two former hubs of authority: Eye Castle and the The Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul.

Derived from the Old English term for island, the town sits atop higher ground above the wetlands and has been influenced by the extensive area of the motte-and-bailey castle, featuring attractive Church Street and Castle Street winding around the oval bailey.

The fortress, constructed between 1066 and 1071 by William Malet, who served as William the Conqueror's companion, can be accessed through Castle Hill—should the entrance be closed, obtain a key at the pink Fen House located directly across. Explore the surviving original outer walls of the inner courtyard and ascend to the Victorian-era tower offering panoramic vistas of the town.

Overlooking the eastern side of Eye stands the church, built during the 14th century, featuring striking flint and stone decorative work as well as a towering structure reaching 31 meters high. Designed by Sir Ninian Comper, a renowned Scottish Gothic Revival architect, the remarkable pinnacled font cover was created, along with partial restoration of the highlight of the church—a 15th-century rood screen adorned with images of royalty and religious figures in gold leaf, red, and blue.

Adjacent to us, the elegant wooden-framed and projecting structure Guildhall has become a private residence, yet you can still appreciate an image of the Archangel Gabriel on an angled post, along with its beautifully detailed oriel window.

At the center of the town lies the Bank Arts Centre A nonprofit community creative center, always active throughout the year featuring music, art, performances, and historical discussions, along with some of the most affordable creative classes in the nation (open Wednesday through Saturday from 10:30 am to 3:30 pm). Just a half-mile stroll from downtown lies Abbey Hall an cultural hub featuring a rotating schedule of ballet performances, theatrical productions, and artisan markets.

This weekend, over a dozen gardens and plots will open their doors to guests for Eye Open Gardens with an exhibit and vendor booths at the municipal building. The "literary fringe" event called Foreword Festival will be held from June 19 to 21, featuring a list of authors such as John Hegley and Ashley Hickson-Lovence.

The "Eye Love" initiative was introduced towards the end of last year aimed at attracting tourists to the town, although Eye has always attracted enthusiasts, as noted by architectural scholar Sir Nikolaus Pevsner who stated it deserved a “stroll.” You can explore the historical roads by taking one of the guided walking trails offered at discoversuffolk.org.uk .

Quick guide

Nearest station: The eye is located 4.2 miles south of Diss station, which is serviced by Greater Anglia trains traveling between London Liverpool Street and Norwich. Bus number 72 operated by Simonds departs from the railway station to Eye once per day.

Transport: Bus number 112 operates between Waveney Road, Diss and Eye multiple times each day from Monday through Saturday. Green Car Taxis offer service from Diss Station to Eye at a cost of £15.
Stay: The gorgeous Chamomile Cottage is a wooden-frame B&B offering generous breakfasts. The Grade II listed The Oaksmere is located a five-minute drive away and features a bar and dining establishment.
Eat: Cocoa Mama , Caféye , The Bank Arts Centre , Forge Café , The Orangery Dining Room at Oaksmere
Drink: The Queen’s Head , Bar 14
Shop: Dream On, Green Door , English & Continental Antiques , Studio 37 , The Handyman , Beards Deli
Visit: Eye Castle , The Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul , Guildhall , Eye Open Gardens , Eye Town Trail, The Eye Circular , Thornham Estate , Mid Suffolk Grazing Walk
More: eyesuffolk.org.

The top accommodation option The ideal lodging choice The premier place to reside The most suitable residence The finest spot for staying The optimal location to dwell The prime destination for accommodations The superior place to rest The ultimate venue for lodging The highest quality accommodation

Hidden along a side street, a 15-minute stroll from the heart of the city, Chamomile Cottage It is an attractive timber-built structure dating back to the 17th century, offering two bedrooms along with generous breakfasts that include East Anglian sausages and bacon. Bed and breakfast rates start at £110; small, well-mannered dogs are permitted.

The Oaksmere A Grade II listed country residence featuring a Tudor foundation and a Victorian addition, located a five-minute drive north of Eye. Surrounded by beautiful gardens, it houses a traditional pub along with The Orangery Restaurant. It offers 14 bedrooms (one of which is wheelchair-accessible); accommodations in the Tudor section feature low ceilings and visible wooden beams. Bed and breakfast double rooms start at £139; ground-floor units with private patios welcome pets.

Top locations for shopping

Dream On offers exquisite women's clothing and accessories, with all proceeds directed towards the Blossom Charity which provides transformation services for individuals undergoing cancer recovery. Discover vintage items, rare collectibles, and used books at locally owned stores. Green Door , fine furniture at English & Continental Antiques and the works of Suffolk artists and potters at small but vibrant Studio 37 . The Handyman is a delightful traditional hardware shop, and over there Beards Deli you'll definitely not want to miss out on the generous cheese display.

The best cafés

Cocoa Mama is a confectioner offering handcrafted truffles produced onsite using South American cacao, along with exquisite hot chocolate served in the garden cafe and cozy shed. Caféye In the town square, you'll find a great place to enjoy grilled halloumi paired with flatbread or a sandwich featuring Turkish sujuk sausage and cheese. Enjoy tasty pastries, soups, and baked potatoes for lunch, as well as coffee and desserts at The Bank Arts Centre.

Top spots for a nighttime beverage

Once upon a time, Eye boasted 14 taverns, five alehouses, and two brewing facilities, yet the final remaining bar is The Queen’s Head a peculiar wooden structure featuring a lively fireplace during chilly days and a distinct game room equipped with a billiard table. At Bar 14, Above Caféye, Turkish bartender Cem has designed a welcoming area where you can enjoy his tasty drinks (don’t miss the passionfruit daiquiri).

The ideal spot for an evening meal

The Garden Room Restaurant at the Oaksmere Features tables with views of the garden and a menu highlighting premium locally sourced ingredients such as Blythburgh pork and Gressingham duck. The small plates are impressive, and those who enjoy traditional pub food will appreciate the steak and Guinness pie or the beer-battered fish fillets.

The best summer walks

The Eye Circular is a simple four-mile walk, crossing the River Dove, west of town, going past Abbey Hall and agricultural land. Wanting to extend your journey? Choose from one of the 12 trails nearby Thornham Estate four miles southwest of the town; the onsite Forge Café is open from Wednesday to Sunday. Take the Mid Suffolk Grazing Walk browse the map with me for suggestions on additional dining spots.

Three facts you may be unaware of regarding eyes…

1) Along Lambseth Street, a winding "crinkle-crankle" wall hides Chandos Lodge, which once served as the residence of Sir Frederick Ashton, former head of the Royal Ballet.

2) The town's industrial area is partly located on the grounds of a former U.S. Army Air Forces base, which housed the 490th Bombardment Group during World War II. A monument honoring the 490th can be found on Progress Way, and not far away, the Red Feather Club hosts the 95th Bomb Group Heritage Association, famous for its jitterbug dance events.

3) In the 17th century, the Linden House served as the residence of sisters Mary and Margaret Thompson, who were active in the movement for women's voting rights during the early 1900s.