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Nestled against the base of the bizarrely shaped San Fernando Hill , the city of SAN FERNANDO is the most striking in Trinidad. Usually referred to as the industrial capital of Trinidad and Tobago, it has an old-fashioned charm helped in large part by the old winding lanes studded with charming gingerbread buildings. It is also the best place in the region to find accommodation, good restaurants and lively entertainment. Far quieter than Port of Spain and with few tourists, you may be overwhelmed by local attention, although there is no need to feel intimidated: it is entirely well meant. There are no buses or maxis travelling within San Fernando, and route taxis charge a flat fare of TT$2 for most journeys, with an added dollar or two for off-route drops; you can hail one on any main street. Most of the historical sights and shops are located on and around the Harris Promenade , a broad, elegant boulevard running west from the foot of the hill. At 200 metres high, San Fernando Hill - flattened with steep protruding points, the result of quarrying activity - overshadows the town centre and makes for a pleasant recreation area with picnic tables, a childrens' playground and panoramic views. High Street is San Fernando's main shopping street, lined with clothes stores and street vendors. At its southern end is Happy Corner , location of a few renovated colonial buildings and King's Wharf , where you can buy fresh snapper, kingfish and shark at the local fish market. On Carib Street stands the city's oldest building, the Carib House - an eighteenth-century Spanish colonial building - while neighbouring Coffee Street is home to many of the south's steel bands , including the highly acclaimed Fonclaire . San Fernando is the hub of the south's transport system; from here you can catch maxis, buses and taxis to Port of Spain, La Brea, Princes Town and Point Fortin.
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