Welcome to Cambodia!  The Kingdom of Wonder!  A Country Rich in Culture, Heritage & History!

Below are useful information, advice and travel tips for tourists who plan their visits to Cambodia. It will help you understand better and more about Cambodia before touching down in the land of heritage, the Kingdom of Wonder:

It is not exaggerating or flattering, but it is the truth! We try to provide all the best as we can for all visitors from all walks of life and from all over the world.

Why visit Cambodia?

Cambodia is an all year-round tourist destination, where the hospitality of locals has no boundaries.  

Cambodia feels like a bit of a hidden gem in Southeast Asia. While it’s still a pretty popular tourist destination, it’s not talked about nearly as much as Thailand or other neighboring countries.

Cambodia is full of amazing places of interest just waiting for you to be explored! It is a wonderful choice for anyone who wishes to discover mystery, history, its charm and beautiful landscapes.

With spectacular temples, historic sites, colonial-era buildings, cities, countryside view, the rice fields, farmland, rivers, small towns, villages, unspoiled nature, pristine jungles, mountains, beautiful coastline, islands and beaches and a beautiful sunset, and a rich cultural heritage and history, Cambodia should not be a place you/tourists miss to visit in the life time. Once you are in, you will understand why you never want to be out or you will want to come back again.

Seriously, it is a wonderful place to spend the holidays. 

It is not just the wonderful places of interest you will see in Cambodia, but there are more! 

The first thing you’ll notice upon arrival and during your stay in Cambodia, you will most probably be touched by the friendliness of the genuine people with their forever smiling faces, respectful greetings and their kindness and hospitality. In most places you go, you’ll be warmly welcomed and guided by unfalteringly friendly and optimistic local residents, just waiting to wave their hands when you pass them by and eager to flash their beaming smiles at you and to show you the treasures of their country.

Cambodia is a popular destination for all kinds of folks, from independent backpackers who roam far into the hinterland to luxury tourists who wish to stay in style and with all sorts of tastes and experience, wonderful food including exquisite French meals, massages, etc., from no star to even higher than 5 star!

It has been said that Cambodia‘s Angkor Wat can only be rivaled by a few of the world’s greatest historic sites, but once you’ve paid a visit to the famed temple complex that has become a symbol of the country, you’ll realize that Cambodia’s magic extends far beyond the walls of Angkor Wat. From the country’s inviting people greeting you with smiles to its bustling beaches, charming cities and rich culture.  You will discover the true essence of the Cambodian way of life.

A quote from a tourist “Before we visited Cambodia, we always and used to hear that Cambodia is known to be a country of complete tragedy and violence, the killing fields.  But after we visited, it turned out that Cambodia and Cambodian people are very friendly and the best country we visited ever.  Everywhere we visited, be it rural or city, we were met by kind-hearted and happy people.  It was not the same news as outside people thought.  This is the fourth time we visited Cambodia since we first visited this country in 2007” 

There have been a lot of news report about Cambodia which said Tourism to Cambodia has exploded over the last two decades in two waves. The first was when security concerns were addressed, allowing easier access to Angkor Wat and then, more recently, the second was when Cambodia's stunning islands opened for business.  So, please don't assume Angkor Wat is all Cambodia has to offer, there are very much more.

Is Cambodia a safe place to visit and what should be precautious?

People still question whether Cambodia is safe or not.  Given its depressing history of civil wars, tragic, violent and killings, it is well understood it is a fair question to ask. We want to clearly mention that Cambodia is a very perfectly safe country for travelers these days, with very few incidences of petty crimes. We would say it is even safer than a lot of other countries in the world that some people have never thought about.

Whilst we recommend exercising normal precautions to look after your belongings, your credit card, your cash and other valuables safely… as you explore, just as you would in any other country. It is always better to be more vigilant than being neglected. Prevention is better than a cure!

A quote from a tourist “We found nothing but friendly, happy, smiling people who welcomed us with open arms to their country.  We felt safe,safe enough to explore the majority of the major tourist destinations on our own terms, without having to be in tour groups or with guides”.

There were few reports of assaults, robberies and sexual harassments occurring rarely in the remote and poorly lit areas of big cities or provinces. The most frequent petty crimes against foreigners, foreign tourists reported were bag/purse snatching, pickpocketing, and others types of petty thefts and crimes can happen at remote areas at night, but generally violent crimes in the country are uncommon. Many of these crimes are committed by young gangs operating particularly in big cities of Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.However, please remember no valuables are worth your life.

At late night, it is always safer to take a tuk-tuk instead of walking or riding alone back home, especially at rural areas.

Steer clear of drugs.  It is strictly forbidden in Cambodia. Although marijuana is very easy to find in Cambodia, they are all illegal. Partake at your own risk.

If you're travelling alone, buddy up with some other backpackers, never walk home at night alone, and steer clear of drugs.

Road traffic accidents are happening at a high level in the region.  Always wear a helmet and avoid driving at dusk or at night without lights on.

Drive carefully and keep right all the time. Expect and prepare yourself to see some crazy driving, even sometimes drunk driving, especially in big cities or provinces. In some cases, people are overtaking surprisingly on the right side against the traffic rule of Cambodia. In time of busy traffic, drivers always try to move forward, squeeze into spots as long as they could advance a bit further.

As with any place you visit, it’s important to be cautious. Keep your wits about you and make sure you keep your belongings close to you. Use the same caution you would be in any busy city.Never show off any valuables.

There are some small areas, mainly in the jungles near the Cambodian-Thailand borders where there are still some unexploded ordnances not yet cleared.  If you are planning any walks, even in safer areas, such as the remote northeast as mentioned, it is recommended you take a local guide with you.

However, the government of Cambodia, with the support and cooperation of the international mine clearance organizations, has been working hard to clear these remnants/unexploded ordnances (UXO) left behind by the war legacy.  It is not a big threat/concern for visitors at all, as it is just at the restricted area.

Take care with some of the electrical wiring in some guesthouses around the country, as it can be pretty amateurish.

There are some harmless scams which involves a bit of commission here and there from taxi, remork moto, moto taxi drivers, tuk-tuk and other transport means.  Always check and negotiate prices well.

Travelling in Cambodia might not be all about luxury and extravagance, but if you are prepared to endure the heat and walk around with dust covered faces, this country holds valued way behind the touristy 5 star resorts. An education in the waiting to be learned, a history that wants to be heard, the gratitude and smiling faces of the Cambodians.  Those are the memories you walk away with and get to hold close to your heart forever!

What is transportation means available in Cambodia?

The easiest way to explore cities/towns in Cambodia is via tuk-tuk. They're generally inexpensive, especially when compared to taxi and it is safer.  However, there are many other transportation means available such as motorcycle taxi, remork-moto (a cart pulled by a motorcycle), metered taxis, car rentals, buses, etc…  Look for one available to suit your needs, depending on where you are visiting.

Transport fee wise is cheap.  Depending on where you are visiting and where you want to go, motorcycle taxi, metered taxi, tuk-tuk, cars, remork moto (a cart pulled by a motorcycle) are available everywhere in big cities and provinces.

Some ideas of the fees for the transport:

• Motorcycle taxis: $1 or less, depending on distance.
• Remork-moto or tuk-tuk (carts pulled by motorcycles): $1-$5 depending on distance.
• Metered taxis: not available in most parts of the country, but easy to find in Phnom Penh. Usually around $1 per mile.
• Buses: Trips to and from major cities in Cambodia are very affordable by bus. Siem Reap to Phnom Penh is $6, Phnom Penh to Sihanoukville is $5.
• If you can rent a private car a half or full day.  Better to discuss prices beforehand to avoid any surprise.  Mostly, all hotels, guesthouses have their own car rental service or they may have connections with other service providers.  Do discuss with them.

Is it expensive to visit Cambodia if you have rough budget?

Accommodations, food, transport, clothes, other commodities in general are very cheap in Cambodia.  And of course, it depends on what you want to have.  There are three different levels where you can get (low, medium or high end) from zero star to higher than 5 star.  Everything is available here in Cambodia.

As with most of southeast Asia and mentioned in many reports, travel in Cambodia is relatively cheap. Some international news report even declared that Cambodia is the cheapest country to live, especially in retirement life.

If you’re happy staying in hostel dorms and eating local dishes, you might be fine getting by on $15 or lower a day. But if you want to indulge in some comfort food, get a private room, or experience some of the country’s tourist activities, you need to budget a bit higher. For $25 a day you’ll be able to live very comfortably in Cambodia and enjoy some of the country’s best attractions. The more tours you want to go on or hotels you want to spring for will obviously affect your budget, but in general, a good base point to plan for would be about $20-$25 per day for someone with rough budget.

Some international reports even declared that Cambodia is the cheapest country to live, especially in retirement life.

However, it will be very wonderful for everyone who has a much higher budget. It is like a paradise or a patron visiting, traveling to or even living in Cambodia in this case.  It depends on who you are and how you act!

When to Visit Cambodia?

As mentioned, Cambodia is an all year-round tourist destination.

Cambodia, a tropical country, with a temperature range of 21 to 35°C,only has two seasons: wet and dry. The dry season and peak months for visiting are between October and April. Temperatures in April can exceed 40°C.

The lowest temperature and cool period in Cambodia is between December and February coming with a cool breeze.  The temperature could be much lower at the countryside, especially near the mountainous areas which is below 20°C.  However, sometimes, it is just as usual.

Dry season is regarded as the best and peak time to visit Cambodia. However, since it is a peak period, many accommodations and even other commodities and services are also sold at higher rates. Still, it is crowded as most visitors plan their visit during this time. Booking in advance is recommended during this period.

Low season or off-peak season which is a green season starts from May to September.  

The rain begins sometime after the hottest months to cool things down and the dusk is all gone. Heavy monsoon rains could make a lot of mud, muddy road and even flooded at the remote area. But, it is not a matter of safety concern. It does not tend to disrupt any daily life at all. Lush greenery of the country starts to return. 

During this season, many tourists never know that it is the best season to visit Cambodia. It is not a matter of no need to spend money to buy sunscreen and to waste time applying it.  It is about more in terms of being different, but nice!

There are several best reasons and positive aspects that perhaps people don’t realize by why not considering to visit Cambodia during the green season. Do not put you off visiting Cambodia or you will be missing out on the more authentic Cambodian experiences during this time of the year.

In fact, the low or green season is not as bad as what most people tend to think. It won’t compromise your travel plans at all.  In addition, since it is always summer in Cambodia, locals as well as expats somehow enjoy the rainy season more as it cools down the temperature and gives off fresher air which makes it very desirable. Why not join the locals as they dance in the rain? It is also a great way to experience the culture.

The rain pours for a few hours and it stops and it does not rain every day and it does not rain all day. Mostly it rains in the afternoon. Sometimes, it is even very less rain during this period.  

Before the rain starts to fall, it will be a sign that it is going to rain in about 20 to 30mn in advance.  You will see the cloud becomes dark with some winds coming along. 

So, take shelter of the rain with new indoor activities, pampering yourself with nice spa treatment, massage, manicure or whatever you wish too. There are also many independent galleries, studios, bookshops around town which you can get your art fixed.

You can also kill your time by going to a supermarket to purchase some items or food for your daily life use.  In Cambodia, markets form a major part of the daily life, some of them serving as the equivalent of a western supermarket from meat, fish, fruits, vegetables, to clothes, spare parts, household goods, art, bootleg DVDs and electrical items all of which you can find in many markets in town.

If you wish to take some souvenirs with you, if you are in Siem Reap, go to Phsar Chas or if you are in Phnom Penh, go to Toul Tom Poung market or best known as Russian market.  They are perfect places to find some great items with great deals. 

When you visit Cambodia, please do not forget to bring along with you some bargaining skills. Just be cautious, there are some shops, markets or service providers who may charge you at a higher price seeing you as Barang. However, use your bargaining skills to negotiate to buy the products or service for a lower correct price.

Or go indoor taking an opportunity to learn cooking Khmer food or even Western food if you like.  It is available everywhere mostly in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Kampot, Battambang, with signature dishes such as fish amok, spring rolls, Khmer curries, etc. which are a great skill to take home to impress your friends or family members with. Please check with your hotel staff or do some research on the internet.

Everywhere you go, you will see that the landscapes are very beautiful, as the nature is covered and surrounded by lush greenery and cultivated fields.  And what else?

No dust, less crowd, cool, and cheap.  If you go to the beach or on the island, the ocean stays a perfect temperature for swimming.  On top of this, there’s something quite wonderful to swim under the tropical showers, with the views of the rain falling down on the ocean waters are very spectacular.

If we speak about the price for the accommodations and many other service, it is cheap, cheaper and cheapest everywhere and with almost everything. Some high-end resorts, hotels are selling at even lower than a half price, giving you fantastic value for money.

Why? Because most businesses do their best to get every customer they can during this season (business is really tough during this period!).  So, it means you can get greatly reduced prices on everything and the best deals – travelers are the winners here! Transportation is cheaper, it is easier to bargain in markets and the hotel rates are at their lowest. If you often travel on a budget, the green season is the best time for you to travel to Cambodia. You are guaranteed that you can stretch every single ‘dollar’ a lot further.

Have you even seen a thunderstorm, a tropical storm? You will be able to see it during this season.  Mostly it happens before the rain starts to fall.  How does it look like?  During the day time, the sky plunges into dark, crackles and groans like the earth is about to end.  The wind whips up and then the rain hammers down.  During the night time, it is the best time to watch a thunderstorm, with the bolts of lightning piercing the sky. Look through a window and watch the nature performs before your own eyes.

One of the advantages of traveling to Cambodia in the off-peak period is you have more space and opportunities to own your holiday experience. According to the Ministry of Tourism of Cambodia, Angkor Wat alone receives more than 1 million tourists each year. Imagine yourself in a sea of tourism crowds, having to queue and struggling to capture people-free photographs or perhaps, you would like to dine at one of the recommended restaurants by TripAdvisor or your travel agent which you have already planned about, only to find out that the tables are fully booked. 

We understand that it is not everyone’s idea of a great holiday vacation. Traveling during the low season simply means you can avoid the massive crowds and fully imbibe yourself into the destination.

Aside from fully owning your travel experience and capture people-free photographs, if you are a photography lover, this season is a delight, as it is a great time to visit and take some snaps of the floating villages a lush Cambodian countryside view, verdant rice fields, farmers working and animals walking in the rice fields, birds perching on tree branches, flooded forestand the vibrant lotus ponds,farms, waterfalls, etc. You can only witness these during the green season.

If you are in Phnom Penh, come and watch the famous Cambodian cultural and traditional festival which is called Water Festival. Please check the Cambodian Festivals and Holidays calendars mentioned on this website’s Tourist Info Center page.  And there are many more cultural and traditional festivals and ceremonies falling under this green seasonin Cambodia.

It is about the law of demand and supplies applied here.  However, it is your decisionand your choice.  Why not think outside the box? 

What to bring when visiting Cambodia?

In short, there is no need to bring many things with you.  We just recommend you to bring more cash and credit card(s).  That’s all.  Just remember, at the moment credit cards are not accepted on the islands. 

As described above, many things are available for purchases in Cambodia.

Compared to other continents, Southeast Asia is a breeze to travel through because you generally don’t need to bring a lot of items.

A quote from a tourist “I once had a friend who brought nothing but 1 set of clothes during a trip to Cambodia. Instead of lugging around a bunch of clothes, he opted to do all his shopping there instead”.

Major cities like Phnom Penh or Siem Reap will have any amenity you could need, so don’t worry if you forget to pack something.  You’ll likely be able to find it there even at a much lower price.

If you still want, we recommend and give you some ideas to bring along the following items:

• Lightweight, loose-fitting, cotton clothing, jackets, Zip pocket jacket,is recommended for the dry season.
• Visitors may wish to pack long pants and long-sleeved shirts for hiking, trekking or for outdoor activities.
• A hat and sunglasses may be useful when walking around and protected from sun and dusk.
• During rainy season, visitors may want to bring a light rain poncho/jacket. Otherwise, a cheap plastic ponchos can be purchased locally.
• A sturdy and foldable umbrella to protect you from the rain or from the sun.
• A light jacket or cardigan to be used during the months of December and February when temperatures are at their coolest.
• Some shorts, T-shirts, shoes, long trousers, long skirts.
• Anti-mosquito cream/spray/repellent. As in other tropical countries, hot and humid climate, expect to see mosquitos, depending on reasons, mosquitos are available everywhere, especially at night or at jungles, remote area.
• Sunscreen 
• Medication you might need such as stomach/flu drugs.
• Toothpaste
• Toothbrush
• Comb
• Shaving blades
• Handkerchief, scarf
• Money belt
• Small and zip lock bag
• Camera
• Smartphone
• Dusk cover to cover your mouth or nose, when travelling on a scooter or open-air vehicle.
• A torch
• A good book
• Extra passport photos
• Photocopies of your passport
• And of course, the cash in US$1, US$5, US$10, US$20, US$50, US$100, the smaller bills are better, easy for change or exchange (Important note: old and/or torn currency bills may be rejected).
• And other things if you think it is useful for your personal travel plan
• Last but not least, it is not different from most countries in Asia, bring also along your bargaining skills with you, as it is expected in the market place and smaller shops that are created for tourists, when buying something, renting service, motorbike, tuk-tuk, tax, etc.  You will use it to negotiate for a lower price.

Where can we find the ATM, Banks /Currency Exchange Shops?

In Cambodia, people trade in both Cambodian Riel and US dollar.  However, it is even more common for tourists to use US dollars than Riel. Pretty much all prices are quoted in shops and restaurants will be in US dollars while you can get small changes in the form of Riel.  You don’t need to worry to find banks or exchange shops. 

In case you need to exchange some money in Riel, you can do so at any bank in Cambodia. Or you may get better exchange rates at the local markets or exchange shops.  If you are in Phnom Penh, you can get to Orussey market near street 114.  If you are in Siem Reap, old market will be the best place to go.  So, shop around.  You will be able to identify the money changers by their glass cases filled with piles of notes.

At the moment, the exchange rate of USD1 to Cambodian Riel is about 4000, usually a bit higher, but not lower.

How is about the internet service in Cambodia?

Internet and WIFI are available almost everywhere in hotels, restaurants and coffee shops. It is free of charge or it is very cheap. If you need to use it, just get to buy food or a drink at a coffee shop and ask for a free internet connection/WIFI.  You do not need to worry about this.  You may also buy a SIM CARD with a cheap internet connection at any phone shops in Cambodia.

What is the electricity socket/adaptor/voltage used in Cambodia?

Cambodia uses 220V/230V AC electricity. Power outlets are two-prong round sockets or two-flat-pins plugs. To be easier, we recommend you bring a long with you one Universal Travel Adaptor.

What foreign languages are most spoken in Cambodia?

English and Chinese are spoken in Cambodia in big cities and provinces, especially English where many Cambodian people can speak well. Except if you are planning on visiting the countryside or small towns in which English or other foreign languages spoken will be limited.  It would be nice to study a few key Cambodian phrases/sentences and use them during your trip to help you along.  In any cases, local people turn to be even friendlier if they hear a visitor can speak their language.

What should a visitor behave when visiting Cambodia?

Cambodia is a country of Buddhist religion.

People in Cambodia are well-known for their kind hospitality and warmth. They are polite people and very gracious.  The Cambodian people, as hosts, understand that foreign visitors may not be familiar with all of their customs and tradition. By showing and sharing respect to them, you will gain trust, respect, love, friendship and have a better experience in this exciting part of Southeast Asia. 

Out of respect, visitors to the Kingdom should take care to observe local customs and practices. You may find it useful to familiarize before embarking on your trip to Cambodia. It will help you understand more about the Cambodian culture and avoid social misunderstandings.

It is always ethical to behave ourselves well from the first place to ensure a warm welcome and set an example for other people to follow and to learn.

Below are some important spiritual and social conventions, rules on what you, as a visitor, should and shouldn’t do:

• Buddhist monks are deeply revered and respected. Women should never stay too close to or touch a monk or even his robe/belongings.  Even mother’s monk could not touch him or hug him.
• Before entering a house, a sacred place such as Buddhist pagoda or Royal Palace, please remember to take off your shoes,hats, headphones, MP3 players, turn off phone speakersand keep the shoes and hatsat the entrance and avoid disrespectful conversation inside. In respect to guests visiting their home, the Cambodian hosts will try to insist you to keep/wear them in for your comfort.
• Aside from monks, elders are given the highest level of respect in Cambodia. Always acknowledge an elder’s status by allowing them to control the conversations, sit first, walk first, begin eating first and take the lead.
• If you go to a pagoda and have to sit on the floor, do not sit cross-legged or with your legs outstretched or point them at Buddha images. Instead, sit slightly sided on your heels. If the position becomes uncomfortable, try to shift on your other side.
• When seated, you should not sit higher than a monk, a Buddha statue or elder person anywhere in a circumstance/location where you need to attend.
• When a monk is seated, you should also sit before starting a conversation. 
• Most Theravada monks are not allowed to have meal in the afternoon.  Be mindful by not eating or snacking around them in the afternoon. 
• Don’t turn your back to Buddha statue to take a selfie.
• In public areas, on sacred grounds such as pagodas, and in public buildings, avoid shouting, as well as laughing and speaking excessively loudly.
• It is always good to leave a small donation in a temple or religious building you visit.
• The same way as when we meet, we greet each other.  Say “Sok Sabay” meaning good health and happy or “Suor Sdey” meaning Hello. Or “Chum Reap Suor” which means Hello too, but in terms of respect used with older people or with someone we respect.  Use one of these greeting words accompanied by pressing your palms together in front of the face and slightly bowing forward, in a prayer-like manner, called “Sampeah” in Cambodian word. Your Cambodian hosts will be happily surprised to see you using and knowing their language to greet them. 
• Not returning someone’s greeting with “Sompeah” is considered rude.
• In the Cambodian and Buddhist culture, the head is the highest and most sacred part of the body. Please do not touch or pat the head of people.
• Similarly, as the feet are the lowest parts of the body, do not use your feet to point at someone or something to get the attention of someone or to push an object to someone.  Even putting your feet on the seat opposite of you is considered very impolite.
• It is always missed taking notice. “Sampeah” where hands are held higher and fingertips touching the chin or nose is to show more respect to elders, officials, teachers. For monks, the fingertips should be touching the forehead.  A higher “Sompeah” is also used to show extreme gratitude or sincere apology when making big mistake. At the same time when “Sompeah”, do not forget to bend your body slightly forward.
• Shaking hands from Western greeting style is now more and more acceptable in Cambodian society, usually with men after “Sampeah”, due to the influences. Sometimes, you can see people practice both the greeting styles when meeting each other, meaning “Sampeah” first and then shaking hands.
• It is considered respectful when presenting, offering and accepting someone/something with both hands, especially with an elder.
• Do not use your left hand to hand someone something.
• Pointing someone with your index finger is considered rude. Instead, gesture with your right palm on its back with all fingers straight.
• When beckoning someone over or calling someone, always wave towards yourself with the palm down.
• As a Buddhist country, Cambodia dress code is an important point to care. Try not to cause locals to feel embarrassed by your attires. Mainly for ladies, avoid shorts, miniskirts or other clothing that are too revealing. Avoid wearing swimsuits or scanty clothing outdoor or around town. Wear a sarong to cover up. And please remember to be dressed in a clean and modest manner. Especially, women should wear a T-shirt or a blouse with short or long sleeves and a skirt or pants at least at knee-length and cover up elbows.
• Always dress conservatively and do not wear T-shirts in religious ceremonies.
• Be mindful in your contact with the opposite sex, even placing an arm around neck to pose for a picture can be misinterpreted.
• Although busy with tourism, if you visit Angkor Wat, it is still very much a religious monument. You will encounter many monks there. Do dress appropriately and follow the rules of temple etiquette, especially for ladies. Just you are in a foreign, more conservative country, and much of the access to temples will be prohibited if you are not dressed respectfully.
• Avoid mentioning or asking questions that may cause locals to become uncomfortable, controversial topics such as about war, politics, Khmer Rouge, the problem of landmines and other subjects that could trigger dark memories. In dining table, do conversation on any happy stories, subjects. Many people experienced a lot of sufferings in the past due to a long period of civil wars in Cambodia.
• Avoid supporting bad, unsustainable practices such as child begging or buy souvenirs made from insets, shells or wildlife which could cause further damages to the environment. Practice sustainable travel is especially important in Cambodia.
• Poverty is still rife in Cambodian, despite the rapidly growing economy and rising middle class. It's not uncommon to see children begging or trying to sell you books, bracelets, or trinkets in many tourist hotspots. A tourist visiting Cambodia should not fall into the trap of buying from these children, as it fuels the cycle and encourages more families to send their children onto the street for a decent pay-day.
• If you wish to    help, donate some mondy to a local or international organization that is working to promote the well-being of the unprivileged children. Learn more about the issues, and solutions by visiting Think Child Safe.
• The Cambodian society is relatively conservative and public displays of affection, such as showing your feelings to your lovers, kisses and hugs, are considered inappropriate and offensive behaviors. Holding hands is ok.
• As cultural customs are different in Cambodia, please do not resent Cambodian habits, which may be considered rude in your country.
• Although Cambodian people enjoy having their pictures taken, it is better and always polite to ask for permission first.
• If you buy foods at a street cart or a stall in a market, the price is usually cheap. Please remember that Cambodia is still a developing country and they are just starting to be familiar with other cultures, customs and expectations. They are learning and they also need more time to learn to understand foreign visitors. So, be patient when communicating and interacting with your Cambodian hosts.Although they are always very friendly.
• As mentioned, Cambodia is still a developing country.  Set an example, do not litter. Help keep our community clean and safe.
• If invited to attend a Cambodian wedding, it is customary to bring some cash as a wedding gift although it is not really a must. Some people buy some gifts instead of cash.
• When using a toothpick at the table, use one hand to cover your mouth.
• It is also considered respectful to invite other people, especially an elder person, to start eating first. The same also applies to seating. The hosts will surely invite you as guest to start eating first to show their respect to you as their guest. And remember to eat with your right hand as the hosts will do. However, they do not mind you if you are accustomed yourself using only left hand for eating.
• Avoid wearing T-shirts and clothing that depict war or violence.
• When accidentally making mistake or unintentionally embarrassing someone, say “sorry”, “Som Tos” in Cambodian word, and stay polite. It is just a matter of showing respect and acknowledgement that is most important for Cambodian people.
• Never get into an argument with a Cambodian person. It’s better to smile through any conflict.
• As with most of Asia, saving face is very important.  To lose one’s cool in public is completely unacceptable.  Avoid shouting, blaming, criticizing someone in front of others no matter how inconvenient or uncomfortable a situation is. It will make it worst to lose your temper. People who remain calm and smile through adversity are highly respected. The problem could be solved much easier and faster than if you do the opposite.
• Although Cambodian people always like to forget and forgive, they do not like to be demeaned.

Have an unforgettable journey and memorable holidays in Cambodia!

Tesachor Cambodia Team

Phnom Penh, Cambodia