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Central and south Trinidad encompasses an astonishing variety of landscapes. The west coast is gritty and industrialized, punctuated by the odd oasis of calm such as the Caroni Swamp - home of the scarlet ibis - and Trinidad's busy second city, San Fernando . On the east coast , there are the stunning Manzanilla and Mayaro beaches , both lined with coconut palms and still undiscovered by the tourist trade, and inland sits the protected Nariva Swamp , home of endangered species such as the manatee (sea cows). In contrast to the northern east-west corridor, the central and southern regions of Trinidad are populated predominantly by people of Indian descent; watch out for Hindu temples, flags and Indian delicacies along the roadside. Transport is no problem along the west coast; most towns are easily accessible from the Uriah Butler-Solomon Hochoy Highway , which runs from Port of Spain to San Fernando. Rural areas inland and the south and southwest coast can be more of a problem, however - maxis and taxis take long circular routes and the absence of road signs can make driving confusing. Accommodation in the region is minimal, with most hotels geared more towards oil-industry personnel than to tourists. Host homes are your best bet, and an excellent way of meeting local people; contact the Bed and Breakfast Co-Operative Society. Most of the region, however, can be reached from Port of Spain in a day trip, unless you plan to spend time on the south and southeastern coast. Restaurants and nightlife are very limited in the region, though there are plenty of fast-food places serving cheap, filling meals, especially Indian and Chinese food, while the many small bars and rum shops provide friendly conversation and a good night out. In central Trinidad there are a few high-class restaurants at the Grand Bazaar Mall - at the junction of the Uriah Butler and Churchill Roosevelt Highways - Apsara is especially good, serving high-quality Indian food. An exclusive place, it lies opposite the Imperial Garden; expect to pay at least TT$150 for a meal (Mon-Sat 11am-11pm). In the south restaurants, hotels and entertainment are clustered in San Fernando. Recommended establishments are listed in the text.
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