Useful Information

Language

When visiting a foreign country it’s always a good idea to learn a few words. You probably won’t need to use it much if you stick to the main tourist destinations as you’ll find that many people speak English - especially in Siem Reap, Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville.

However, the people you encounter will, for sure, be impressed if you try to speak a little Khmer with them. Cambodian people truly appreciate when they meet foreigners who try to learn some Khmer words and phrases, so it might well be worth the extra effort.

The best way to learn a new language is to listen and talk to native speakers. This brief little introduction to the Khmer language will give you a head start.

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Useful phrases

Sues’day
Hello (informal)
Chum reap suor
Hello (formal)
Soksabay che te?
How are you?
Awkun
Thank you
Awkun ch’ran
Thank you very much
Baat
Yes (for men)
Chaa
Yes (for women)
Tei
No

Fact File

Full country name
Kingdom of Cambodia
Area
181,040 km2
Population (approx.)
14,241,640 (2008 estimate)
Capital
Phnom Penh
People
Khmer 90%, Vietnamese 5%, Chinese 1%, other 4%
Language
Khmer (official), English and French
Religion
Theravada Buddhism 95%, other 5%
Government
Constitutional Monarchy
Head of State
King Norodom Sihanouk
Prime Minister
Hun Sen
Time Zone
GMT +7 hours
Electricity
220V, 50Hz
Weights & Measures
Metric system