San Fernando, Trinidad and Tobago

With a population of just 55,419, San Fernando is hardly the bustling metropolis some may imagine. This coastal city in southwestern Trinidad is the country's "industrial capital," but the reality is a persistent headache of traffic and bureaucracy. The city is bounded by rivers and highways, with a downtown core lacking the towering skyscrapers of the capital Port of Spain. While the climate is tropical, there's a noticeable drier stretch from February to April - hardly the lush paradise one might expect. San Fernando may appeal to those seeking affordable living outside the big city, but its challenges mean it's not for the faint of heart.