Whats up and where to go at Camp Pendleton, Oceanside CA

[mszwabo]

My son recently graduated from A school at Great Lakes and just arrived last friday at Pendleton. Just looking for information on the camp and where to go to in area; what to stay away from; prep for FMS training and expectations, he is currently a several weeks or so from training but working in hospital now with the 1st marines....any help or comments are appreciated.

[8404]

He will be somewhat at a disadvantage without a personal vehicle.

As with any military town, there are plenty of places in Oceanside, California designed to separate military personnel from their money. Tattoo parlors, night clubs, (if you can call them that) and other establishments of certain patronage.

Use common sense and the buddy system while in town. Always keep a copy of your immediate chain of command's telephone numbers, for use in emergencies.

Places to see: San Diego Zoo, San Diego Harbor, Mission Bay, San Diego Mission San Luis Rey and of course a little ways north you have Disneyland! You also have Knotts Berry Farm which is another amusement park close to Disneyland.

You'll find some of the finest Mexican fare around San Diego, which is rich with Hispanic history and culture. Stay out of Mexico and immediate areas close to the US/Mexican border.

If he is awaiting FMTB, he can continue to work on his physical fitness.

Following is the link to Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California:
http://www.cpp.usmc.mil/

Following is the link to Field Medical Training Battalion, FMTB located at Camp Pendleton, California: http://www.cpp.usmc.mil/schools/fmtb/index.asp

[mszwabo]

Hey thank you...

[tact.medic]

Make sure he walks with some buddies, there is safety in numbers and yes even in the rear we need battle buddies. Stay away from Mexico, and the seedy clubs/bars/tattoo parlors. Stay away from guys who drink too much especially if they drink in the barracks- he can get into a lot of trouble because of them. Good luck to him :)

[8404]

...Stay away from Mexico...

Fernando, eres tu? Porque no visitarme? :D

[dvldocjoe]

Have him look up the information for the North County Transit system as well. The buses run on or near the base and can take him anywhere in the North County area like Oceanside, Carlsbad, and Escondido. It connects to the Metrolink to San Diego or Los Angeles and rge San Diego transit system (bus and trolley). The Naval Hospital in San Diego is conviently located near Balboa Park and the Zoo.