Exploring the customs: The Dos and Don'ts in Cambodia

People who travel to Cambodia are said to be blown away by the friendliness of the people, the awe-inspiring landscape, and its mysterious charm. Cambodia, with its rich history, mouth-watering cuisines, stunning coastlines, and lively nightlife----it is one of the most popular travel destinations in Southeast Asia. Yet, as traveling as exciting as it seems, there are times when traveling abroad, and we aren’t familiar with the local culture.

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First thing First: a brief religion introduction to culture of Cambodia:

Religion has been the significant source of Cambodia cultural inspiration throughout Cambodia's over nearly two millennia history. A unique Cambodian Khmer culture has developed from a variety of beliefs such as Indian religions of Buddhism and Hinduism. Indian culture has deeply influenced Cambodia including its civilization, languages and arts.

Theravada Buddhism is the state religion of Cambodia, which has influenced Cambodians traditional customs in many aspects.

First time meeting the Cambodians: Greetings

In Cambodia, you might be hearing “Chum Reap Suor” in the streets often, coming along with a gesture of pressing their palms together in front of the face and bowing forward slightly. This is called ‘sampeah’. Try doing this with the Cambodians instead of shaking hands.

Shaking hands is more of a western thing in Cambodia. Yet, it has now become more and more acceptable, usually between men. And after a ‘‘sampeah’. When offering a gift or passing things to a Cambodian, especially to the elders, it is the traditional convention to present it with both hands as a show of respect. With its Buddhism culture influence, head is believed to contain the person's soul which makes it a taboo to touch it. Do remember not to touch a cute Cambodian kid's head when you see them for the very first time.

When greeting, it is not polite to have direct eye contact with someone who is older. Don’t get it wrong when they look away when greeting, since it is considered as a show of respect. The Cambodian society is relatively conservative and displaying affection in public, such as kisses and hugs, are considered inappropriate and even offensive behaviors.

Dos in Cambodia 

It is very important to educate yourself on local customs before going somewhere. There are taboos in Cambodia culture that you should be aware of before traveling. Here are some important dos and don’ts to keep in mind.

• Do take off your shoes and hats before entering a sacred place, such as a Buddhist pagoda or the Royal Palace.
• Do be well dressed in a clean and modest manner when visiting a pagoda or Royal Palace. Especially, women should wear a long blouse with long sleeves to cover up their arms. If wearing a skirt, do remember to have clothes to cover up to the knees. 
• Do leave your shoes at the entrance. In Cambodia, they usually have their shoes taken off in indoors area. 

Don’ts in Cambodia

• Do not touch or pat the head of people, even with cute Cambodians kids. In the Cambodian and Buddhist culture, the head is the most sacred part of the body. Therefore, it is considered bad luck when you touch somebody’s head. 
• Do not use your feet to point at somebody or something when trying to get the attention of somebody. As the feet are the lowest parts of the body, it is considered to be disrespectful. 
• When at a pagoda and you need to sit on the floor, do not sit with your legs outstretched or cross-legged. Try to sit slightly sided on your heels instead. It is considered more polite sitting this way. Yet, if the position becomes uncomfortable, try to shift on the other side. 
• If you are a woman, don’t touch a monk’s robe or his body. Since Buddhist monks are deeply respected in Cambodia. 
• Do not shout in public areas, especially sacred places such as pagodas, even laughing and speaking loudly are considered impolite in Cambodia.

Exploring a different new culture is exciting, yet there are many traditions and customs that we should pay extra attention on. The dos and don’ts will save you from being awkward and avoid being disrespectful unintentionally. Keep the Dos and Don’ts in mind and you will enjoy your time thoroughly in Cambodia.

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