What to prepare for before you leave for Cambodia or what no tourist guidebook will tell you

Cambodia is a country that attracts an increasing number of tourists seeking exotic experiences. However, it is not only nature, food, or architecture that is exotic in Cambodia. For us Europeans, some typical behavioral patterns of Cambodians can also be surprising, and it is good to be prepared for them.

Cheers! And properly

Toasting is common in many European countries. However, Cambodians experience this custom in a very unusual way. During celebrations, they toast (in Khmer, "cul mui") with every sip, and everything is accompanied by great cheers and wishes for everyone sitting at the table individually. It is no wonder that such a drinking session can last late into the night.

Mainly calmly

The main religion in the country is Buddhism — the philosophy of this religion is embraced by the vast majority of Cambodians. This is also why they are mild, calm, and always try to avoid conflicts. You will rarely hear angry shouting or arguments. Likewise, if you let your emotions get the better of you, you lose your authority in the eyes of the locals. Here, the best strategy is a smile from ear to ear.

What to wear?

Cambodians are quite reserved, so it is good to wear not too flashy clothing that covers at least below the knees and also covers the elbows when visiting religiously significant places. It is also considered rude to enter someone's home wearing shoes. This rule also applies to temples, where it is appropriate to remove head coverings as well.

Do not touch

The head is considered the most sacred part of the body in Cambodia, while the feet are regarded as the least important. Therefore, it is not appropriate to touch anyone's head. Similarly, it is rude to point at people's feet, especially monks and Buddha statues.

No handshakes

Yes, handshakes are not appropriate in this case. In Cambodia, greetings are made by placing the palms together, bringing the hands to the chest, all accompanied by a gentle bow. The higher the person stands in front of you, the higher your hands should be and the deeper your bow.

Observing these customs opens the hearts of the Khmers, and soon a kind acceptance with wide smiles follows, perhaps calmly beyond the threshold of their homes, where the real, authentic Cambodia begins. We also always humbly follow the customs of our farmers in the Kampot region, whom we greatly respect.