travel guide palawan

Palawan Do's and Don'ts

Are you planning a trip to Palawan and want to make sure you don't miss out on any of the exciting events and festivals? Look no further than our Palawan Calendar of Events!
We've made a list of the most popular and must-see celebrations in the province, including cultural festivals, religious fiestas, and public holidays.
From the vibrant street parties of the Ati-Atihan Festival to the solemn rituals of the Pagdiwata Tribal Ritual, our calendar has something for everyone. So mark your calendars and get ready to experience the best of Palawan!

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Do's

Be Friendly

Filipinos are known for their friendly nature and warm hospitality. It's common to see people smiling and welcoming wherever you go, regardless of their social status. In Palawan, it's especially important to reciprocate this friendliness when interacting with local traders, vendors, and other people you may encounter while exploring the busy streets.
By treating others with kindness and respect, you'll likely receive the same treatment in return.
The innate hospitality of Filipinos is deeply ingrained in their culture and traditions, so it's important to embrace this aspect of local life to fully enjoy your experience in Palawan.

Have a Good Sense of Humor

Filipinos are renowned for their love of humor and their ability to find joy in almost any situation. Joining in on their laughter and appreciating their natural cheerfulness can help you feel more at home in Palawan.
In fact, studies have shown that Filipinos have a lower risk of depression thanks to their strong sense of humor.
So, take the time to sit down and share a laugh with the locals, and you'll surely feel the warmth and positivity that the Filipino culture exudes.

"Selamat"

Hospitability is deeply ingrained in the Filipino culture, making it a common trait among every Filipino family and citizen.
Travelers who visit the province of Palawan often experience this firsthand, especially in guest houses and upon arrival in the area. It is common to receive a warm welcome from the locals, which often surprises visitors.
Expressing gratitude and thanking the locals for their hospitality is highly appreciated, and a simple phrase like "salamat" (which means "thank you" in the local language) can bring a smile to their faces.

Try Local Delicacies

Palawan's rich culture includes a variety of native delicacies that are enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.
Some of these delicacies, like Cuyo's Buti-Buti and the natives' Panyaram, can only be found in their places of origin.
Others, such as crocodile meat and tamilok, are unique dishes that can be found throughout the province.Trying Palawan's local delicacies is a must-do activity during your visit.

Attend Festivals & Events

Attending local events is a must-try experience when visiting Palawan in the Philippines. Filipinos, especially those from Palawan, are fond of festivities and celebrate various occasions throughout the year.
These events provide tourists with the opportunity to learn about the local culture and witness exciting activities, such as street parades and dance performances.
Don't miss out on the chance to immerse yourself in Palawan's vibrant and festive culture.

Buy a Travel Insurance

Before traveling abroad, it is always wise to purchase travel insurance.
This type of insurance is designed to provide coverage for unforeseen circumstances that may arise during your trip, such as illness or adverse weather conditions.
With travel insurance, you can be covered for any unexpected delays, cancellations, or postponements of flights that may occur while you are vacationing in Palawan.
This will give you peace of mind knowing that you are protected against any unforeseen events that could potentially ruin your trip.

Dont's

Don't Book Last Minute in Peak Season

When planning your trip to Palawan, it's important to keep in mind that peak season can get very busy. As such, it's best to avoid booking your accommodation and tours at the last minute. During peak season, many popular attractions and accommodations get booked up quickly, leaving limited options for those who wait too long to make arrangements.

Don't Lose your Temper

Don't let frustration get the best of you when communicating with local people in Palawan.
While language barriers may pose a challenge, it's important to remain patient and respectful during interactions.
Getting angry or losing your temper can lead to misunderstandings and negatively impact your overall travel experience.
So, keep a calm and positive attitude, and seek assistance from someone who can help bridge the language gap.
Remember, showing respect for the local culture and people can go a long way in creating a memorable trip to Palawan.

Don't Rush Things Out

To fully appreciate Palawan's rich biodiversity and stunning attractions, plan a visit for more than a week.
Rushing through tourist destinations can make it challenging to appreciate the true beauty of Palawan.
Take your time to immerse yourself in the stunning scenery, indulge in the local culture, and make your trip a truly memorable experience.

Don't Litter

Palawan is known for its cleanliness and orderliness, and littering and smoking in public places are strictly prohibited.
Violators may face fines that increase with each offense.
Be a responsible tourist and help preserve the natural beauty of Palawan by avoiding littering and respecting the local community and environment.

Don't Walk Around the Town in your Bathing Suit

Tourists must be mindful of local customs and cultural norms when visiting Palawan.
It is important to dress appropriately and avoid walking around in bikinis or without shirts as this may be deemed inappropriate and disrespectful to the locals who are modest people.

Don't Drink Tap Water

To avoid getting sick, it is recommended that tourists refrain from drinking tap water in Palawan. It is advised to purchase bottled purified water which is readily available at an affordable price from many stores and street vendors. Additionally, most hotels provide complimentary bottled water for their guests.

Don't Refuse Food

When visiting the Philippines, it's common for locals to offer you food as a sign of their hospitality.
As a guest, it's important to accept the food and try it out, especially if it was prepared specially for you. Refusing the food may be considered impolite and may offend your host.
Additionally, make sure to express your gratitude by saying thank you afterward. This will show your appreciation for their kind gesture and enhance your cultural experience while in the Philippines.

Don't Smoke in Public Spaces

Smoking is banned nationwide on beaches, streets, and other public areas. only designated smoking areas are exempt.
Larger hotels, restaurants, and bars may have a marked smoking zone, but many smaller establishments don't, so ask staff where (or if) smoking is permitted before lighting up.

Don’t Go To Native Villages or Communities without a Guide or Permission

To respect the culture and traditions of tribal communities in Palawan, it's important to not enter their dwellings without permission or a knowledgeable guide.
These tribes are usually welcoming to tourists, but it's important to ask permission before taking pictures or participating in their rituals.
By being respectful and guided, visitors can experience the unique culture and traditions of these communities, which have been preserved for generations.
With luck, visitors may even witness traditional dances or celebrations.

Don't Go Home Without a Souvenir

Don't forget to buy a souvenir before leaving Puerto Princesa.
You can find a wide variety of affordable souvenirs such as wood carvings, sculptures, pearls, and ethnic accessories.
You can also buy printed shirts and delicacies that are properly packed for your journey home.