Cambodia is a homogeneous country with more than 90% of the population being Khmer and speaking Khmer, the official language. The remainder is Vietnamese, Chinese Cambodians, Cham, and Montagnard people concentrated in the mountainous north and northeast. 95% of the population is Buddhist. Cambodia's population has a high growth rate, the number of people concentrated in urban areas is low, the urban population is concentrated in some big cities such as Phnom Penh (the capital city), Sihanoukville, Siem Reap, Battambang, Takeo, Kompong Cham, and Kompong Thom. 85% of the population lives in rural areas and works in agriculture and handicrafts, so the quality of life is low and the literacy rate of the population is low, too.

However, visitors to Cambodia will agree that the people here make this country so special. Their generosity, kindness, enthusiasm together with a kind smile on their lips always make visitors feel warm and want to come back more.

They laugh a lot

A smile is never far-fetched in Cambodia. Khmer people all over the world have their signature smiles. That smile is often combined with a sparkling gaze expressing happiness and joy, which makes visitors feel comfortable from the first time they arrive in this country and feel like they are welcome back to their own home.

They love to help others

If you seem to need help like your motorbike is broken or you are lost, Cambodians are ready to assist you, not just one helper, but even a lot of people. In a few minutes, you will see them together trying to find a solution to get you out of any problems.

They are a little curious but still very polite

Cambodians have a bit of curiosity in their personality so don't be surprised if you are asked questions about yourself like where you come from, what do you do, your marital status, do you have children, ... These will be quickly asked more questions about your country and your lifestyle. Do not ignore these questions or be annoying because Cambodians simply love to learn and want to interact with friends around the world. But if the questions make you feel too difficult to answer, you can also say no.

They are resilient

The resilience of the Cambodian character is reflected in the glimpse of the past. This country has been through many decades of civil war, or painful war, the loss of life is unspeakable, one of the painful wars is the Pol Pot - Khmer Rouge genocide from 1975 to 1979. An estimated 1.7 million people died that nearly paralyzed the country. However, with extraordinary determination and strength, Cambodians rebuilt the country at breakneck speed.

They are really kind

Many visitors to Cambodia will be cherished for the kindness and generosity of the people, although there are still areas of poverty, that kindness never seems to be lost. Don't be surprised if a family seems to have nothing but they happily offer to share their food with you or invite you to participate in traditional celebrations and festivals.

They are humble

This is another innate trait that many Cambodians have and it adds to the appeal of local life. They know the meaning of respect and worship that. If you come here to travel, respect yourself and respect them to make your trip more fun.

They are always proud of their origin and country

Cambodians have always prided themselves on their strong history, stretching back to the time of the mighty Angkor Empire, and they are proud of their rich culture, including the Apsara dances, traditional arts, and a wide range of handicraft.

They are honest

The Cambodian's honesty may shock many people if they first come here. They do not intend to disparage but sometimes it will make you a little embarrassed, maybe you will be bluntly commented that thin, tall or short, recommend getting married, having children, ... At first, being unfamiliar will make you feel a bit uncomfortable, but this is a very normal cultural behavior in Cambodia.