Re: P.v.a. Versus Primers......
Many/most modern cement based adhesives are "primer free" to some extent. That means they don't require normally encountered surfaces, such as plasterboard or concrete, to be primed, BUT, there are almost always exceptions. The obvious ones are gypsum/anhydrite surfaces, (partly for the reaction risk, partly because they're very absorbant) and other surfaces which may react in some way when in contact with cement based materials.
Very absorbant or very non-absorbant surfaces may need to be primed.
Very absorbant surfaces can include certain light weight concretes and LECA, because otherwise they'll absorb too much moisture from the adhesive, thus preventing it from curing properly.
Very non-absorbant surfaces include already tiled surfaces, plastics, and metals, becuase the adhesive may not bond properly to them otherwise.
Always check the manufacturer instructions on wether or not an adhesive is suitable for the surface you intend to tile, and if your specific surface needs priming or not when using your chosen adhesive. It should say so on the bag. If it doesn't, don't risk it.