7 things to avoid when traveling to the Philippines

Common mistakes tourists make when traveling to the Philippines. Photo: iStock

The Philippines is one of Asia's top tourist destinations. In 2019, approximately 8.3 million people visited the country. The Philippines is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including the white sandy beaches of Boracay Island, the Chocolate Hills in Bohol, and several other famous locations.

To have the best experience, tourists should pay attention to the following 7 common mistakes.

Not realizing that most people can speak English.

You might be surprised to learn that over 90 million Filipinos speak English. In major cities like Manila, almost everyone can converse in English.

Filipinos can communicate in English. Photo: Philippine Star

So don't hesitate to talk to Filipinos if you need help with transportation. They will try to speak English and explain things to you.

Preparing too much money for travel

In the Philippines, you can buy many things at cheaper prices than expected. Many currencies, such as the USD, British pound, and euro, have favorable exchange rates. Therefore, you can spend money freely without having to tighten your belt.

Traveling to the Philippines is often cheaper than expected. Photo: Vacationhive

You should also prepare a budget and compare tour prices to get the best deal. Filipinos are friendly and will always try to help you. Therefore, you can ask them for ways to travel around the country at the most reasonable price.

Use only cars or taxis.

The Philippines offers many convenient transportation options. Tourists can take jeepneys – a popular type of small, open-air bus.

Jeepneys offer a unique experience for tourists. Photo: HuffPost

Another way to travel is by tricycle. Tourists can also travel between islands by boat, ferry, or plane.

Letting your guard down is dangerous, especially at airports.

Filipinos are very friendly and hospitable, but it's always better to be cautious. In Manila, tourists should be wary of people offering to carry their luggage or other tricks, especially at the airport. These people often have bad intentions and may steal your belongings.

Tourists should not let their guard down when traveling in the Philippines. Photo: GetByBus

Some cities in the Philippines are safer than others. For example, according to the website Numbeo, Davao City has a safety index of 72.5. Meanwhile, Manila has a lower safety index of 35.1.

Numbeo is an online database about the quality of life in cities. The site collects data from businesses and government agencies, then combines it with user information to generate a final score.

Do not learn the local language.

Tourists should learn a few words or a handful of local languages ​​to adapt to the culture. The Philippines has over 100 languages, but the most widely spoken include Tagalog, Ilocano, and Bisaya.

The Philippines has many languages. Photo: Holidify

When you learn a few words or some common language, Filipinos feel like you're part of their family. Even babbling a few words like "salamat," which means thank you, makes you more endearing.

Disrespecting local culture

Showing respect to others is very important in the Philippines. Make sure you speak politely to others without raising your voice or becoming aggressive, especially with older people.

Filipinos have always respected their elders. Photo: Philippine Star

Filipinos call those who disregard social norms "bastos," meaning rude and ill-mannered. Although the locals are friendly and hospitable, tourists should be mindful of how they speak to others.

Don't be too blunt.

In the Philippines, people tend to be more reserved and not as outspoken about what they really think. People often follow a set of scripts when guests come to their homes.

For example, if your host asks if you'd like a meal, you should decline because they might not have money to buy snacks. If they ask a second time, you should still decline for the same reason. But if they offer a third time, you should accept the offer because they are genuinely sincere.

Tourists shouldn't be too blunt with Filipinos. Photo: The Star

If you refuse a third time, your host will consider it an insult. So, you should be mindful and ask a Filipino for advice on how to handle this situation properly.

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