Welcome to Cambodia! You’ve arrived in a country rich in history and full of cultural diversity. The low-lying plains, mountains, and the beaches along the Gulf of Thailand are all part of the lush landscape. The Kingdom of Cambodia, as it’s officially known, is the 70th-most populous country in the world with a population of over 15 million. Ninety-five percent of Cambodians practice Theravada Buddhism.
The vast majority of the country’s inhabitants are Khmer (Cambodian), while minority groups include Vietnamese, Chinese, and roughly 30 different hill tribes. Cambodians are known for their warm-hearted, friendly, and welcoming nature. Many Cambodians speak excellent English and enjoy talking with foreigners to exchange notes about different cultures. To give you a head start on talking to a local, “Thank you very much” in Khmer is orkun cha’ran. Wherever you go on your holiday in Cambodia you’re sure to see smiling locals.
Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s fast-developing capital, serves as both the economic and political hub as well as the cultural center of the country. To the northwest, the majestic Angkor Wat temples grace the mountainous landscape, and to the south, the beaches of Sihanoukville stretch along the coast. Cambodia is also home to the largest fresh water lake in Southeast Asia, the iconic Tonle Sap Lake. Its “floating villages” are home to Khmer, Muslim, and Vietnamese households, which make up a multi-functional super town of floating houses, floating markets, fisheries, schools, and health clinics. For a more off-the-beaten-track experience, you can arrange a floating village family homestay.
We’ve always believed that one of the highlights of a holiday in Cambodia is meeting the country’s warm-hearted locals. Our Travel Specialists—Cambodian locals themselves—will be delighted to show you their country. To start planning your tailor-made vacation in Cambodia, just tell us what you want to see and do. For more inspiration, browse our Cambodian tours. As the locals say, Awt ei te! (“You’re welcome!)
