Things To Do
in Plainview

The ubiquitous Filipino stew of pork or chicken simmered in soy sauce, vinegar and garlic; you’ll find simple, home-style versions at carinderias and family restaurants.

Must-Try!

Fresh fish grilled over charcoal, often served with vinegar dipping sauce; common at market stalls and seaside eateries if Plainview is near the coast.

A tangy tamarind-based soup with pork, fish or shrimp and vegetables; warming and popular during rainy periods.

Stir-fried noodle dish served at gatherings and markets; a good vegetarian-friendly option when cooked with vegetables.

The town’s central market is where locals buy fresh produce, fish and meat; great for tasting street snacks like turon (banana fritters), bibingka (rice cake) and grilled skewers from morning until late afternoon.

Small temporary stalls or vendors selling barbecue, fried goodies and local desserts near the plaza in the evenings—perfect for sampling cheap, tasty treats.

Always greet and show deference to older community members; a nod, smile or the Filipino greeting ('Mano' for hand to forehead with elders in more traditional families) is appreciated.

Dress modestly when visiting churches and religious sites, and be respectful during masses or religious processions—ask permission before photographing people in ceremonies.

Filipinos value friendly, polite interactions—use simple greetings, smile, and say 'salamat' (thank you). Avoid loud confrontations in public.

It’s common to remove shoes when entering private homes—wait to be invited or follow the host’s lead.

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory in small towns. For restaurant service, leaving small change or 10% in more formal places is fine; for tricycle drivers and guides, rounding up or a small tip is customary. Always tip discreetly and in pesos.

Cash (Philippine pesos) is king in provincial areas; many small businesses and markets don’t accept cards. ATMs may be limited—carry enough cash and small bills for market purchases, tricycle fares and tips. Mobile payment apps are growing but may not be widely accepted.

A major regional hub for domestic and international flights; often used as a gateway to many parts of the central Philippines. From here you can connect to regional buses, ferries or domestic flights to reach provincial towns.

A regional airport serving Iloilo and surrounding provinces; suitable as an alternative arrival point depending on which part of the Visayas or nearby regions you’re traveling from.

Vegetarian options are available but limited; request vegetable versions of pancit, sinigang with vegetables, or mixed vegetable dishes. Clarify that no fish sauce (patis) or shrimp paste (bagoong) should be used if avoiding seafood products.

Vegan choices can be found at markets (fresh fruit, rice, boiled sweet potatoes, grilled corn, vegetable stews) but you’ll need to ask cooks to omit fish sauce, eggs and meat broth.

Rice is the staple, so many dishes are naturally gluten-free; avoid soy sauce (contains wheat) unless you can get tamari or check labels.

If you require halal food, options may be limited in a small town; seafood and vegetable dishes are safer bets, and you may need to travel to a larger town for certified halal restaurants.