5 cultural differences to remember for TEFL teachers in Cambodia

There’s no other way to say it: Cambodia is an amazing TEFL destination. With its fascinating history, vibrant music and arts scene, and natural beauty that seems to go on forever, Cambodia has won the hearts of many TEFL teachers' hearts in recent years, with more and more of our graduates heading there to start or continue their teaching journey.

One of the most attractive places to teach for TEFL certificate holders without a degree, Cambodia has an immense demand for English teachers. The country’s proficiency levels are slowly but surely increasing, and English is taught from the school level to higher education, where entire curricula are being offered in the language.

With an increased focus on competing in the global economy, as well as trying to appeal to visitors from around the world, Cambodia’s attempts to improve its infrastructure for English education make sense. In return, teachers are experiencing a lifestyle that can’t really be replicated. Just ask our podcast guests Rachael McGettigan or Daniel Gillard what teaching is like over there, and they’ll give you rave reviews.

What do you need to know if you move there, though? Like we did for Japan , Spain , Vietnam and South Korea , we’ve picked 5 cultural differences you need to know about before you launch into your TEFL life in Cambodia.

Difference 1: Sampeah

How do you greet someone formally in Cambodia? Sampeah , that’s how.

The traditional greeting involves holding your palms together, lifting them to chest level, and bowing slightly. Of course, there are modifications to this, reflecting hierarchy and authority. The higher your hands are and the lower your bow, the more respect you show someone in your greeting. 

So, when you meet a monk, for example, you ought to go for a higher hand and lower bow out of respect to Cambodia’s Buddhist tradition. Anyone older than you and people in positions of power should also receive this kind of treatment.

What do you say when you’re doing all this? For hello, you say “Choum Reap Sur”; for goodbye, you say “Choum Reap Lir”.

Difference 2: Business cards

Yes, you get business cards everywhere. However, they’re taken pretty seriously in Cambodia, and you’re expected to have plenty to offer people.

If you’re working as a teacher - and especially if you’re working as a tutor! - business cards are vital. Not only do they help to mitigate the language barrier while introducing yourself, but they’re also a way to cement a formal introduction. Networking! It’s important!

Even as a teacher in a school, you’re representing an institution. Having a business card, therefore, is a way to demonstrate respect for your employer and your position. It’s not just in the business world where people are exchanging cards.

Here’s a tip: if you’re speaking to parents about a particular student and you’re offering additional support or advice, handing a business card is a good way to express your earnest care. Not only is it a cultural norm to give out business cards, but in some scenarios, in Cambodia, it’s also a way of saying that the conversation you’re having matters greatly.

Difference 3: Don’t get flustered

Saving face is something we’ve talked about plenty when it comes to etiquette in Asia. It’s crucial. The way people are perceived matters. So, no matter how frustrated you get, being confrontational with someone is a way for both of you to lose face, something which can bring great shame.

Let’s be clear: as a TEFL teacher, you should represent yourself and the profession with grace and decorum when you’re out and about, whether in Cambodia or anywhere else. That said, it’s particularly important not to raise your voice or gesture wildly in Cambodia because confrontation is highly taboo.

In large part due to the violent and traumatic modern history of Cambodia, threatening language and public disorder is immensely troubling to Cambodian people. Granted, you shouldn’t be causing problems for local people wherever you choose to teach, but especially here.

We all get upset sometimes. Things don’t go our way. Just don’t take it out on anyone when you’re in Cambodia. Causing a scene in public is always, always avoidable.

Difference 4: Hats and shoes

This one’s a bit simpler, but it’s just as easy to follow: if you go into someone’s home, take your shoes and hat off.

A general rule is that it’s rude to wear a hat indoors. In temples, you’ll likely be asked to take your shoes off. If you’re able, just respond to what people around you are doing, and that’s a pretty great guide in terms of what’s acceptable to wear.

In the classroom, wear your shoes. A hat, though? That’s hardly teaching attire, thank you very much!

Difference 5: Haggling is normal

There are plenty of people for whom the concept of haggling is innately uncomfortable, but when you’re out of the classroom and in the markets? Yeah, you can haggle a bit. 

Far from being disrespectful , haggling is a very normal part of buying and selling goods in Cambodia. You’ll be expected to try to get a cheaper price for most items. Again, however, saving face comes into play. Let the merchant save face by agreeing to their last offer - it’ll still usually be lower than what you would’ve paid initially, but the back and forth will have been entertaining!

Haggling has its own rules and practices that we’d recommend you read up on before moving to Cambodia. As a TEFL teacher, you’ll be earning a very decent salary in Cambodia, especially in comparison to the cost of living, but still - haggle and make sure you’re doing it right.

Cambodia is there to be experienced!

It may not have the globally recognised glamour of Japan or South Korea, but Cambodia is a vibrant, exciting place to teach English. The music scene, the markets, the temples, the lush and verdant scenery, the culture at large, and the incredibly welcoming locals make it an ideal place for any TEFL teacher to settle in. If you respect Cambodia’s traditions and customs, be sure that you’ll be accepted with open arms. English teachers are in demand, and make no mistake about it.

With cities like Phnom Penh and Krong Siem Reap, a litany of UNESCO Heritage Sites , and so many amazing people, Cambodia is a perfect landing spot for any TEFL teacher who’s curious about Southeast Asia. Just remember our crucial cultural tips, and you’ll settle in with no problems!

Are you excited about TEFL but unsure where to begin? Take our TEFL course quiz and see which qualification you need to start teaching English.