Cambodian society is largely Buddhist and function according to a hierarchy. As such, it is not uncommon for locals to ask foreigners personal questions in order to ascertain their social rank. This is not considered impolite in Cambodia and is simply a way to determine how best to interact with you in a respectful manner. The concept of keeping ‘face’ is also paramount therefore it is important not to embarrass, to get angry with or to criticise anyone in public, which could cause them to ‘lose face’.

Cambodians greet one another with a som pas; a bow with hands placed together in a prayer-like position at chest level. It is considered appropriate to greet or introduce the highest ranking person in a group first.

When entering a Cambodian home, always remove your shoes at the entrance. Most Cambodians sit on mats that are laid on the floor in their homes and visitors should follow suit. Women should carefully place their legs to one side and avoid pointing the soles of their feet at anyone. Men can sit cross-legged.

Visitors should avoid contact with the feet and heads of Cambodians. The head, which is considered the most sacred part of the body, should not be touched; while the lowest part of the body, the feet, should not be pointed at anyone. It is also important for women not to touch monks, who must undergo a religious purification ceremony in the event this happens.

Both men and women, especially when visiting Buddhist temples where it is necessary to cover both arms and legs should wear conservative dress throughout Cambodia.

Visitors need not avoid talking about Cambodia’s turbulent past altogether but any conversation of this nature should be approached with delicacy and abandoned if it appears the local you are talking to does not wish to discuss the topic.