Cambodia

Visiting Cambodia is an experience that will stay with you forever. The country is home to some of the most valued cultural assets in the world and is rich with tradition. Through many turbulent times, the Cambodian people have never lost their friendly and hospitable nature. When you travel in Cambodia, there are some things you might be not familiar with but by making a little effort and showing a respectful manner you will gain trust, friendship, and have a better overall experience in this exciting part of Southeast Asia. Smile, relax and have fun!

Do's

The traditional Cambodian greeting - known as “Sampeah” - is made by putting your two hands together (with fingertips near the chin) and a giving a slight bow with your head. The hands are held higher to show more respect to elders and monks.
Unless told otherwise, always remove your shoes and hat before entering a temple, home or business.
Modest dress is the rule in Cambodia, particularly for women. Dress modestly by wearing long pants and covering your shoulders when you visit religious sites.
Respect for elders. 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 conversation. When seated, you should attempt to never sit higher than the eldest person in the room. Always wait for the eldest to sit. The same applies to beginning a meal.
Use the right hand to accept things or shake hands.
When you encounter a monk, you should remove your hat.
It is proper to perform “sompeah” when you speak or listen to the monks or elders.
Do ask for permission before taking photos of others.
Keep business cards ready, and present them with both hands. Accept business cards with both hands.
A small donation when you visit a temple or pagoda is appreciated.
Do be aware that Cambodia is just emerging from decades of war and services may not meet your expectations, so please be patient with waiters, hotel attendants, drivers, and other service staff.
Support the local economy. Use and enjoy small family businesses, purchasing handicrafts in markets or villages directly to support local artisans and their traditional crafts.

Don'ts

Do not use your left hand to touch, eat, or hand someone something.
Women should never touch a monk or hand anything to them; even the monk's mother may not do so.
If a monk is seated, you should sit also before starting a conversation. Avoid sitting higher than seated monks.
Monks are not allowed to eat after noon - be mindful by not eating or snacking around them.
Avoid loud or disrespectful conversation inside of temples.
Don't touch, climb or sit on statues nor take pictures posing with Buddha images.
Avoid conversation about business or war when at the table. Avoid mentioning about sensitive subjects like the Khmer Rouge or Cambodian politics.
Do not point directly at someone.
Do not touch anyone on the head or hair (considered a sacred part of the body).
Do not point the soles of your feet at anyone especially when crossing your legs. When in a Khmer’s house or in a pagoda, do not sit with your legs crossed together but with both your legs on one side.
Do not display anger. This is a sign of a lack of self control and considered very impolite.
Avoid aggression and confrontation at all costs, raised voices and loss of temper are considered extremely rude.
Do not show affection in public.
Do not distribute gifts such as candy to children as it encourages begging, but give to an established organisation such as a school, monastery / temple / kyaung or village elder instead.
Do not get involved in anything illegal like prostitution or illegal drugs, nor buy products made from endangered species. Do not buy antiques or other sacred items.

Cambodia

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