I don't know why hotels have to be in the city or at the fringes. Why can't they be in the suburbs like Tampines or Jurong East. A hotel in Woodlands would probably do very well. Singapore is compact and our transportation system reasonably good.

New three-star hotels can be located close to train stations and near shopping, food and beverage, and entertainment facilities. These places can be no more than 30 minutes by train to the city centre.

This way the retail trade in the suburbs could be enhanced and there will be greater vibrancy. Hotel rates could also be made more affordable.

Anthony Leong Chee-Hong