Dos and Don'ts in Cambodia

People of Cambodia are warm and generous people. To be respectful to the local customs and culture, it is good to know some ‘Dos and Don’ts when in the country:

Dos:

• Ask people for permission before you photograph them especially religious monks.

• Follow the custom of removing your shoes and hat before entering a place such as a home or temple.

• Bring a small gift for the host when visiting a Cambodian home.

• Wear modest clothes when visiting any religious site.

• Show respect to elders.

• Use both hands to pass something as a sign of respect.

• Take a slight bow and place your hands together at the chest when you meet someone. This is called ‘Sampeah’ and it is a polite way of greeting someone.

• Control your frustration. Showing anger, yelling and shouting is considered very impolite. It makes you ‘lose face’ or damages your reputation.

• Be prepared for personal questions. The society in Cambodia are curious about foreign people and customs and they do not consider it offensive to ask about age, income, education and weight!

Don’ts

• Women should not touch a male monk or hand something directly to them.

• People should not talk about business or war at the dinner table.

• Guests should wait for the host to begin eating first.

• Don’t touch people on their heads as it is considered disrespectful.

• Public displays of affection such as hugging and kissing are not appreciated because Cambodians are a conservative society.

• Point your feet to anyone or to any religious statues or images. The feet are considered the dirtiest part of the body in Cambodia.

#manners #conduct #culture