The Cambodian people are made up by a grand majority of peoples, called Khmer. This term can bring up negative connotations because of the violent Khmer Rouge regime; but nevertheless the people go back far before that ever came to terms, they have inhabited the land for centuries. Along the same name, Khmer is the official language which is, if you must compare, a mixture of Chinese and Sanskrit with some influences from the neighboring country of Thailand and even from French language, as there was a period that France colonized the land.
Religion naturally places a large role in the culture of Cambodians. The first religion is not well documented although we do know that the original tribes were highly religious, as is evident by the remaining temples. Later Hinduism, or Brahmanism came into play, greatly influencing the people and their architectural design to temples or wats.
The 13th century saw the coming of Buddhism and in today's Cambodia, some Christianity and Islam is even present. With all of these religions playing a role in the past, Cambodians are for the most part, Theravada Buddhists.
Some major notes about Cambodian culture that should be taken note of and respected during a visit here, include:
- speaking with a low voice, avoid yelling and grand gestures
- patience
- If a guest, wait for your host to begin conversation
- talking at the dinner table should be limited
- wear respectable clothing
