A culture shaped by faith and family
Cambodia is overwhelmingly Theravada Buddhist, and respect, calm and saving face shape daily life. Khmer people are famously warm, but a little awareness goes a long way in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap or a village homestay near Battambang.
The sampeah greeting
The traditional greeting is the sampeah: palms pressed together in a lotus-bud shape, with a slight bow. The higher your hands, the more respect shown.
- Chest level for friends and peers
- Mouth or nose level for elders
- Forehead level for monks and the most senior people
A simple "Sok sabai te?" (How are you?) is always welcome. Many Khmers will offer a handshake to foreigners, but returning a sampeah is appreciated.
Temple and monk etiquette
Angkor Wat and other temples are active sacred sites.
- Cover shoulders and knees; carry a scarf or sarong
- Remove shoes and hats before entering shrines
- Women must never touch a monk or hand anything directly to him
- Sit with feet tucked away, never pointing at a Buddha image
Dos and donts
- Do use both hands to give or receive money, gifts and business cards
- Do ask before photographing people, especially monks and at religious sites
- Dont touch anyone's head, the most sacred part of the body
- Dont point with your foot or show the sole of your shoe
- Dont raise your voice or display anger; calm wins respect
- Dont be loud or affectionate in public
Tipping and money
Tipping is not mandatory but increasingly expected in tourist areas, where wages are very low.
- Restaurants: round up or leave 5 to 10 percent
- Tuk-tuk and remork drivers: 1 to 2 US dollars for a good ride
- Hotel staff and guides: a few dollars per day is generous
- US dollars are used everywhere; small change comes back in Cambodian riel
Dining customs
Meals are shared from communal dishes. Wait for elders to begin, serve others before yourself, and rest your spoon and fork together when finished. A small burp or full plate is fine, but never stick chopsticks upright in rice, which echoes funeral offerings.
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