The Philippines is a beautiful country with a rich culture and warm, hospitable people. However, like any other country, there are certain things that travellers should avoid to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Here are eight things to avoid while you are in the Philippines.

Scams

Unfortunately, scams are not uncommon in the Philippines, particularly in tourist areas. Common scams include fake tour operators, pickpocketing, and fake beggars. It’s important to be cautious when dealing with strangers and to only book tours and activities through reputable companies.

Revealing clothing

The Philippines is a conservative country, and it’s important to dress appropriately, especially in public places. Revealing clothing, such as shorts or tank tops, may be seen as disrespectful, particularly in rural areas or religious sites.

Public displays of affection

While it’s acceptable to hold hands in public, kissing and other public displays of affection are not common in the Philippines and may be seen as inappropriate.

Disrespecting religious sites

The Philippines is a predominantly Catholic country, and many of its landmarks and attractions are religious in nature. It’s important to be respectful when visiting these sites and to dress modestly.

Not carrying cash

While credit cards are accepted in some places in the Philippines, it’s important to carry cash with you at all times. Many small businesses, such as street vendors and markets, only accept cash.

Not bargaining: Bargaining is common in the Philippines, particularly in markets and street vendors. It’s important to negotiate prices to avoid overpaying for goods and services.

Not being aware of your surroundings

The Philippines can be a chaotic and crowded place, particularly in urban areas. It’s important to be aware of your surroundings and to keep an eye on your belongings at all times to avoid theft and pickpocketing.

Not respecting local customs

The Philippines has a rich cultural heritage, and it’s important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. For example, it’s customary to remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or a temple and to greet elders with “po” and “opo” as a sign of respect.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to the Philippines while also showing respect for the country’s culture and people.