Cambodia’s early history comes from legend: from a marriage between an Indian Brahman and the daughter of a dragon king. From here, the roots of Cambodian culture in India are clear. Cambodians look different from other Southeast Asians and the language derives from Pali and Sanskrit. Cambodians are Theravada Buddhists, with marked Hindu strains; like the Thais, Cambodians greet each other by putting their hands together and bowing (sompeah).

The Cambodians are smiling and friendly people, and it’s worth trying to make an effort to behave appropriately. Take your shoes off if you are entering a building and, for women, try to cover your shoulders even if it is hot. Always enter pagodas attired soberly. Other cultural no-nos include patting people on the head (the head is higher than the hand, so this is an insult) and touching a monk (particularly for women).

Beckon with your fingers pointing down (the other way is suggestive) and do not point your finger or your feet at a statue of the Buddha. Most importantly, do not lose your temper: this will end with a massive loss of face for you and you will seldom achieve what you want.

Cambodia is struggling as a developing country, and if things are not always clockwork, it’s worth being patient and smiling: this is how the Khmers have dealt with their recent adversities. If you do this, Cambodians are unique in being able to make even the hardest trials a more pleasurable experience.

Khmer music is an important aspect of Cambodian life and culture. It is a significant component in religious and traditional ceremonies such as weddings or temple celebrations. Khmer civilization reached its peak during the Angkor period, from the ninth to fifteenth centuries when great monuments were built, with elaborate carvings depicting myths, gods and aspects of daily life. The carvings musical ensembles on bas-reliefs are nearly identical to the ensembles performing in Cambodia today, where virtually every village in Cambodia possesses a music ensemble. This continuity is testimonial to the strength of this ancient tradition.