Why do foreign visitors and tourists love Cambodia's people so much? Let me explain!
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- Опубліковано 7 жов 2024
- In this video I tell you four stories from our time in Cambodia. Each one shows why we think Cambodian people are amazing. Thanks so much for watching!
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A SELECTION OF CHANNELS WE WATCH
▶ Marc’s Mildly Interesting
/ marcsmildlyinteresting
▶ Itchy Feet on the Cheap
/ itchyfeetonthecheap
▶ Robin in Cambodia
/ robinincambodia
▶ Dave Does Cambodia
/ davedoescambodia
▶ Autumn in Asia
/ autumninasia
▶ Now in Lao
/ nowtolao
▶ Side Trip Life
/ sidetriplife
▶ Bangkok Pat
/ bangkokpat
▶ Global Travel Mate
/ globaltravelmate
▶ Travels on Toast
/ travelsontoast
▶ Riding with the Rana’s
/ ridingwiththeranas
A friend and I got caught in the rain just outside Kampot a few years ago. A truck pulled up and a man offered to give us a lift. I was apprehensive at first but I saw his daughter was in the cabin with him, so we climbed in. My friend spoke a lot better Khmer than I do and the driver of this rickety old delivery van was laughing and smiling the whole time. He ended up taking us to his house where he lives with his wife, kids, grandparents, brother and cousin from another province. Everyone was super-nice and they made us sweet Cambodian iced-coffee and the brother spoke so-so English so we were able to talk a bit. They even got us a ride to the hotel we wanted to get to. Something like that would never happen in the US or Canada. They didn't have much, but still, they showed us such warmth and hospitality. It was also amazing how clean and organized their house was despite being so crowded.
On another note, I was at a slightly dodgy expat bar talking to another traveler about how friendly Khmer people are. A large, red-faced Kiwi who was rather inebriated overheard us and loudly agreed. He slapped me on the back and said "yep! unlike in Thailand, here in Cambodia the local blokes will shout a warning if the girl you're talking to is a ladyboy." I didn't know how to respond then, and years later I still don't.
That is such a great story and those wonderful experiences are really what you take away from visiting Cambodia. I just love how welcoming people are - strangers invited home and it's nothing unusual. The Kiwi at the bar, though! I can't say I've ever needed to worry about such things. 🤣🤣🤣🤣
what does red-faced kiwi mean? the bar story is funny, lol.
@@sonievkay "Kiwi" as in a New Zealander. And he was indeed so drunk that his face resembled an overripe beet
@@rumrunner8019😂😂😂😂
Never been to Cambodia or outside the US, but just heard 4 stories that make it sound like a nice place. Got a new subscriber. Was fun to watch. Great video
Thanks so much! Cambodia is a fantastic place and I can't wait to go back. 🙂🙏
Thank you so much for your loving and visiting Cambodia, respect and love from Cambodia ❤️🇰🇭
Thank you for watching - much appreciated! 🙂🙏🙂🙏
Beautiful just beautiful thankyou
👆First' (50) people to contact me, will receive my trading strategies for free and grow 500$ to 10,000$ in less than a week.
Thanks so much Francis! :)
I am currently in Siem Reap on my 6th trip. I will be here for several months and I am here for one reason, The People. I frequently interact with such kind and caring people which make going through life so pleasant. A small point of reference is last night I went for a walk in the rain and passed by a store with several people enjoying a beer. The owner had spoken to me before and as I pass along the sidewalk, he cautions me to be careful because the sidewalk is wet and could be slippery. This is a simple illustration of my experience here, day to day.
👆First' (50) people to contact me, will receive my trading strategies for free and grow 500$ to 10,000$ in less than a week.
Yes! It's these little instances of care and concern for other people that just make life so nice in Cambodia. You really feel that people care about each other and want to help them whenever they can. Thanks so much for watching - being in Siem Reap right now, I am sure you are the envy of many. 🙂🙏
Hi, Davidbuffington..How are you doing ? I never travel alone ..maybe of being Scammed or Scared of .. but your comment made me confident of coming to Cambodia.. Are you still in Cambodia..??
@@sameng7003 yes I am here. Scams are everywhere, I have been in some here, Thailand, Hungary, etc. Do a bit of research for what you want to do, yes, someone is willing to scam anywhere, but in general, Khmer people are absolutely delightful🙏
Spread love. Thank you. Liked. Subscribed. Shared.
Awesome! Thank you! 😊
Hey amazing Clair thanks I am now watching your You Tube For Riel 🍍🎉. I am living in Siem Reap !
That's great! We love Siem Reap 🙂🙏
you are right the cambodian people are great been comeing for years never have had any problems i live in kampot now and i help poor people when ever i can rainy season now
Hi William, thanks so much for watching. We loved Kampot and the people there, and so happy to hear that you help locally when you can. 🙂🙏
I have just visited Cambodia in the month of June..Cambodian peoples are the best.. Siem Reap city and people are awesome..My suggestion, Close your eye and book your ticket for Cambodia..
Yes, I agree. Anyone considering a visit should just go - there is so much to explore and enjoy! 🙂🙏
Heartwarming stories. You've made me think and have influenced my mindset. Thank you very much for sharing your experiences, allowing me to look within myself and share what I have to offer my community. 😁🙏
👆First' (50) people to contact me, will receive my trading strategies for free and grow 500$ to 10,000$ in less than a week.
That's so great, Edward. I reckon you will have plenty of your own stories to add as well. 🙂🙏
Hi Jeremy and Claire , hope all is going well , those of us blessed to have traveled to Cambodia , are sure to have plenty of fond memorable experiences , my story to share here , begins with me befriending a young Khmer woman on the internet , promising to visit her should I ever make it over to the Kingdom , the back story on this young woman , isn't the most pleasant unfortunately , ran over by a drunk driver in Siem Reap , as she was walking home one evening , Phally was left for dead upon the roadway , the driver never to be found by local authorities , now paralyzed from the waist down , the internet has become a gateway to the world for my now beloved friend Phally , once settled into Siem Reap , I make plans to go visit her , and her family , I hire a Tuk Tuk driver for the day , since Phally lives a good half hour outside the city proper , once arriving , I can't explain the joy expressed on her face , or mine for that matter , as we meet face to face for the first time , her Mother , her older Sister , and her two Nephews , all doing their very best to make sure I feel welcomed , and most comfortable , the food prepared so lovingly is simply fantastic , and I experience one of the best days imaginable , in the late afternoon , as I'm preparing to take my leave , the skies open up , and man does it rain , and rain , and rain , and before you know it , the roadways have turned to mud and are simply impassable , " No Worries " she informs me , I'm now going to be staying the evening , and this is where Cambodian Customs and Culture come into play , there is only one bed in the household , the home simply being a wooden structure built upon wooden supports , very common throughout the Kingdom , imagine if you will one room , and not the largest of rooms mind you , I'm informed after much discussion amongst the ladies , that I will be sleeping in the one bed available , I inquire as to who usually sleeps in the bed , turns out it's all three ladies together , so me being the gentleman I have been raised to be , politely reply " No , I can't possibly take your bed " , thinking this would solve the issue , but to my surprise does not , the women going back into huddle to discuss the dilemma further , turns out , that since I'm now the oldest male in the household , I'm expected to sleep " higher " than the women in the household , you heard right , Lol , imagine what I'm thinking in the moment , clearly seeing that the women are now perplexed as to how to solve this problem , I know I have to intervene quickly , as fate would have it , a huge rooster comes walking past the open doorway , and we all paused to take notice , biggest damn rooster I have ever seen , and man could it crow , I look at the ladies , smile , and simply state " As long as I don't have to sleep with that rooster , I don't care where I sleep " , that breaks the ice , they thought that was hilarious , and agree to my proposal of me sleeping on a straw mat next to the nephews , which is what I thankfully end up doing , what can you say about the Khmer people that hasn't already been expressed by so many of us , why do we love Cambodia , carry her always in our hearts , the Khmer People , that's why , and that's why we keep coming back , and for some lucky few , end up making Cambodia a permanent home , which is what I am planning on doing , God willing , and if I'm truly blessed , I'll get to visit my dear friend Phally once again , and I know when that wonderful day happens , we will sit together and laugh about my first visit , for those of you thinking about visiting the Kingdom , and you're not sure , don't think about it , just go , I promise you won't regret the decision , go and make some fond memories of your own , Jeremy and Claire , this was so much fun , not only did I get to take a trip down memory lane , I truly enjoyed your wonderful stories , hope you are both doing well , take care , catch you on the next one , Peace ...
This story is just great! I can picture the women huddling and being really worried about how they were going to solve the situation with the bed. Hilarious that the rooster decided to strut past at exactly the right moment. I really feel that when you've shared a solid laugh things just flow easily because everyone has that good intent. Your friend Phally's life must be so difficult living with a spinal cord injury and all of the secondary complications that go along with it. In a strange coincidence, I work in the field of spinal cord injury research (in communications, not actually doing research), so I understand the issues at least a little, but in the context of a developing country I can't imagine how hard that would be. The resilience of Cambodian people is often mentioned, and you've given a 5 star example right there. Thank you for sharing! All the best. 🙂🙏
Thanks for sharing Claire (and for the plug)! I could go on and on about this topic. They are a great bunch and looking at the response on the video and the comments seems like a lot of people feel the same!
For sure - so many great stories! Loving it :)
I love your creativeness in what to do to make more videos of Cambodia even when your not here at the moment.
Great video and soooo true!!
Thanks Kelly! I have so many ideas for videos, but can't seem to find the time to make them. We are loving your trip up north right now! 🙂🙏
Ran into your husband this am Angkor. We watch you without fail. We originally came from Canada, after 2 trips back to Canada, decided Cambodia was it. Lived sihanoukville 2 years, Kampot for 2 and now Siem Reap for 4.
Fantastic, Jeremy said something about kittens. We should meet up one day for a cold beer, as it's going to be stupidity hot soon.
Thank you so much. From Phnom Penh with love ❤️
My pleasure and thank you for watching. 🙂🙏
I've spent considerable time in Cambodia. The people are extraordinary! I'll be back.
Absolutely agree with you on that one! 🙂🙏
Wow amazing dude 😎 hey For Riel 🍍 You Tube!
Cheers mate! 🙂🙏
Okay 👌 you welcome and also recommend from Luis Rodrigue too Clair !
That was so true about Khmers. They are always kind, humble and generous, as for me every time I return to Cambodia I love to give back to my people. It give me the joy and happiness even though I lost all my family in Cambodia under the Khmer Rouge in1976. Four bothers, three sisters and my mother died by starvation and execution and I still love Cambodia, I was only fourteen at the time.
I'm so sorry that you lost family members in the genocide. There are no words to describe that kind of sadness and I can only imagine how terrible it was. Giving back to the Cambodian people is important to us because it's at least something we can do to recognise what they have been through. Thanks Kelly! I have so many ideas for videos, but can't seem to find the time to make them. We are loving your trip up north right now! 🙂🙏
Cambodian ppl are sincere and the way they’re raised. The Buddhist teachings have played an important role. They believe in karma and the after life. The only thing you can take with you after you die is kindness. Rich or poor we all go the same direction, everything you own you can’t take with you but what you have done on earth will be with you until next life.
That is exactly how I see it too. The Buddhist teachings really do come through in the day to day behaviour of Cambodian people. Thanks so much for watching! 🙂🙏
@@ForRiel yw sis, I grew up here in the us in 1984 and I was 4 years old . But we we’re raised the old Cambodian was we forgive and forget. God is a virtue, you seep what you sow so do as much good deeds as you can and maybe next life you wouldn’t live or indure the same fate.
Another nice video Claire. I can't say I have seen too much of that kind of behaviour in Australia.
👆First' (50) people to contact me, will receive my trading strategies for free and grow 500$ to 10,000$ in less than a week.
Thanks so much Brian. We are lucky that people are friendly in Australia at least! :)
4 years ago, I visited the museum in Phnom Penh. I was walking and saw this lady was selling bottle water at the corner of the street with many dogs sleeping next to her and I stoped to see those dogs. She told me that those dogs are not hers, they are homeless dogs (those dogs don’t look homeless at all) and she told me that she’s been selling water just to take care of those dogs and she is homeless herself, so I gave her $20. As soon as she received my $20, she called tuk tuk and told me that she has to go and buy dog food. This lady cares about the homeless dogs than being homeless herself. It’s just amazing… The first thing comes to my mind was that she would keep the money for her own food.
That's a great story and just illustrates the selflessness of Cambodia’s people. It's great you were able to help her and I am sure she would tell people that story all the time! 🙏😊🍺
I went to a hospital for an operation and was not told they dont bring you food. My massage lady(Best Massage on BBU)brought me 4 orders of fried rice at night, on her scooter, in the rain. Food lasted until i left.
👆First' (50) people to contact me, will receive my trading strategies for free and grow 500$ to 10,000$ in less than a week.
That's so great! Jeremy used to go to that same lady for massage I think. Thanks for sharing!
Well I can concur with that; very nice genuine down to earth people 👍
Yes, the best people and a great country to visit or live in! 🙂🙏
@@ForRiel Yes, as I’m going there to teach on a special programme and am planning on staying long term. China here is getting very difficult now with Covid and everything else
@@ForRiel yes indeed
It's great to see that someone has positive experiences in Cambodia
Oh so many positive experiences! Thank you for watching. 🙏🙂
Arrvd yesterday and now going to Kampong Chhnang.Hello to you.
Nice! What are you going to do in Kampong Chhnang?
Very good to hear such stories! Since not many good stories about Cambodia ever heard from expats this is quite refreshing.
Thank you for watching. I have so many good stories about Cambodia 🇰🇭 😍
After watching your video and hearing your story, I had tear rolling down my face. It brought back some old memories before and during the war in the 70'. I wrote a book published in Amazon Kindle and paperback. It was as a closure for me it titled
>
I stepped out of the plane in Arkansas, Fort Chaffee USA. On me I had an old Tshirt, a pair of faded jean, and flip flop on my feet. I had not a red penny in my pocket, no friend, no familly, and no english. And how I overcome, adapt, and suvive by an advice of a great uncle who was an old french foreing legend he said " If you want to learn chinese sleep with chinese women or if you want to learn english sleep with any women who speak english. So in the US I slept with my english teacher because I learn better lying down.
It's good to have closure and great that you wrote about your experiences.
😆
Thanks that you love Cambodia, we Cambodian also love you all.
So wonderful. Cambodia and its people are very close to our hearts. 🙏🙂
What a great little video alot of heart warming stories ❤️. Thanks for sharing
Thanks so much Graham! It was fun to put this together - pleasant memories. 🙂🙏
Hello . The old bent lady is still going strong collecting plastic bottles in Kampot. Every time I see her I think 'now that is what a real hero looks like'.
That's wonderful to hear, thanks so much. It's incredible how she has maintained her independence in spite of everything. 🙂🙏
Hi Claire, thank you so much for loving Cambodia. One day I will tell you my story. Please keep up the good work.
Thank you for watching. I'd love to hear your story. :)
Great stuff, Claire. Peace,soon.
Thanks so much, Eric!
Great video, thank you!
👆First' (50) people to contact me, will receive my trading strategies for free and grow 500$ to 10,000$ in less than a week.
Glad you liked it, thanks so much for watching!
As Cambodia American live in the unite states it’s true Cambodia people are very nice kind and respectful peoples.
Wonderful to have you here. Thank you for watching! 🙂🙏
G'Day Claire , One time while riding in a tuk tuk we stopped at an intersection , i noticed an elderly lady just sitting there holding a cup in front of her so i decided to give a couple of dollars thinking just to put a smile on her face ! what i didn't notice was some locals watching me , they then rode by and said thankyou to me at the next intersection , i did the same for a lady after a night out she was still there from earlier in the day ! at least i think they could get some food for a few days , just my two cents worth !! Catchya
👆First' (50) people to contact me, will receive my trading strategies for free and grow 500$ to 10,000$ in less than a week.
It's so nice that those locals wanted to thank you. We used to keep all of our small Riel notes on a big bulldog clip and when the bundle got too fat for the clip we would give it away and start again. I'd carry it around in my bag and when I saw someone begging I'd give it to them. People were always so appreciative. Thanks so much for watching and sharing! 🙂🙏
great video 👍🙏
Cheers, Jose!
Excellent video, Claire, thanks! Interesting & touching stories, very well told.
Thanks so much Anthony. I really appreciate it. 🙂🙏
Yes, it is the people that keeps drawing me back to Cambodia.
As a small example, going into a convenience store in Phnom Penh one day, the security guard gives me a genuinely friendly “Hello”. Such a change from London where getting any acknowledgement from any store staff is unusual.
Hi Tim, I love the friendly and genuine way people greet each other in Cambodia! It's sad that store staff in London don't say hello. You'd think it would make their day much better. Thanks for joining in! 🙂🙏
Outside Super Dooper near Aeon 1 ?
I agree they get my vote for the friendliest
Yes, 100%! 🙂🙏
Thank you for watching! I hope you liked this video, and don't forget to share your own story if you have one :)
👆First' (50) people to contact me, will receive my trading strategies for free and grow 500$ to 10,000$ in less than a week.
I agree...Cambodian people are truly
Yes, wonderful people. 🙂🙏
Excellent video thanks a lot Claire...‼️🙏🍻🌷👍💐🍺🌺🥂👌🥂👏🍹🤝🙏.
Thanks so much Oscar!
Morning: I’m glad I founded your website and thanks 🙏❤️ all the beautiful jobs you do to keeps updates :: I was born in Combodia and ❤️ loved to go back visiting soon my sister 🙏❤️😻😊🍀
Oh that's great. I hope you can visit soon. 🙂🙏
This made me tear up. Thank you for sharing.
Glad you enjoyed it! 🙂🙏🙂🙏
What is that plant called at 2:02? I was born in Cambodia and all the Cambodians I know love French people, and I started to learn French when I had the opportunity at the age of 13. As far as I understand Cambodians love Europeans (including Aussies) because of the French who had made enormous contributions to the civilization in Cambodia. In my opinion, the war-torn country, destitution, and humbleness make foreign tourists have sympathy for Cambodians. All Cambodians I know are polite and helpful. The problem starts when some inciters make propaganda to spread hate for political gain
👆First' (50) people to contact me, will receive my trading strategies for free and grow 500$ to 10,000$ in less than a week.
That plant is a Kalanchoe, AKA mother of millions, or mother of thousands plant. The little ones that grow on the leaf fall off and make a new plant. I agree that many foreigners have sympathy for Cambodians. What they have been through as a people is so recent, and it's confronting in some ways. Thanks so much for watching! 🙂🙏
I totally agree about the Cambodian people. I remember our first trip to Siem Reap in 2018,, i got very sick on our trip and couldn't get out of bed,, My wife went down to the local shops to try and get some medicine but the people didn't understand what she meant. A llocal lady came in who could speak English and she told my wife she would take her to a nearby Pharmacy,, So out they went and to my Wife's Horror (and amusement) she put her on the back of her scooter, so off they went , once at the shop the local lady helped her to buy the things we needed and then drove her back to the Hotel,, we still laugh about it to this day,, and we are forever grateful ,,Especially me. Cambodia and the People are absolutely amazing
That's fantastic! What a great story. Sometimes you just have to go with the flow and accept the help that is being offered, even if it means an unplanned ride on the back of a moto! Thanks so much for sharing. 🙂🙏
I can honestly related to your wife's feeling on the back of a motorcycle ride. I brought a friend with me to cambodia years ago and I was the driver 😂 she told everyone it was an amazing experiences for her but also said that she's lucky tobe alive to see her kids coz I'm a crazy driver 😂😂😂
As a Cambodian, thank you for the love you have for our people.
Your people make it very easy for me! 🙂🙏
@@ForRiel Because you are foreigners .
They are I🤬🤬🤬 the same as you
Truly heartfelt stories. You create wonderful heartfelt stories, as well, the way you guys donate to Khmer people in need. Great video!
Thank you so much, Richard. It's so nice of you to say. 🙂🙏
Thank you for loving Cambodia
Hello Thida, I love your UA-cam Channel. មើល ធីតាយូរៗ ទៅលង់ស្នេហ៍ធីតាបាត់ហើយ😅 មាន WhatsApp ដែរទេ?
Thank you Thyda! We love your channel. 🙂🙏🙂🙏🙂🙏
Soon as I heard about fear of foreigners I flew to bali and chilled through covid19 back in siem reap now but 100% made the right decision we’re better to spend a pandemic than paradise on earth 👑 back in cambodia now after a year in thailand and yes the people here are the best 😊
Yeah that would have been a very pleasant way to pass the Covid years! It's good that you have returned to Cambodia now that things have more or less returned to normal. 🙂🙏
@@ForRiel I and most of my Australian friends stayed in Phnom Penh right through the covid rubbish. The local paranoia of foreigners didn't last long. It was worse in Australia, as most people I know who left realized they had made a mistake and were going to a lot of trouble organizing fake job sponsorships and such to come back. The problem wasn't here, it was Australia not allowing them to leave.
They did do some of the lock down stuff here for a while. But Cambodia was one of the best places to be during the silliness of the pandemic. As the restrictions were reversed fairly quickly when they realized they were getting no tourist dollars and then realized that even without the restrictions, the tourists weren't going to come during the pandemic anyway. So they are unlikely to copy dumb Chinese lock down ideas again anytime soon. I had my vaccinations done in Phnom penh. The countries leader did a very good job in securing vaccination stocks for a poorer country and getting them out to the people. India and many countries in Africa, didn't get the vaccinations, until omicron was spreading, which has rendered all current vaccines out of date and of doubtful efficacy.
I've never really liked Siem Reap as it's very touristy and the police there are more aggressive than anywhere else I've been in this country. But during the pandemic, there were no crowds, no mobile bars with loud music two feet from another mobile bar with loud music. Hotels were so cheap and service was great! Why would anyone want to run back to a rule infested western country during that?
@@martinherald6492Ouch...! I read your comment though 😂 it's true in thr us its just such during that time.
I have a khmai wife and she is honestly the most caring and chilled person I have ever met. She cooks extra food every morning to give to monks when we are in cambodia.
I think people are nice and amazing all over the world. Especially if you learn some of the local language when travelling and bring a good adittude yourself.
Thanks for the videos, I'm Aussie too. I hope you and your husband have a great Christmas 🎄 💗
Thank you, Gary! I hope you and your wife have a wonderful festive season! 😀🙏 🍺
very ice to hear, greetings from europe
Cheers, Bjorn. Hope you are going well!
Yes i like the people there.
Wonderful people!
We've been helping many desperate families over the years. Great stories to share them to the world as always from For Real!
That's wonderful. We love hearing this kind of thing! Hope you are going well.
Morning: thanks again: I’m glad you did great jobs showing and telling stories Combodia yess it’s beautiful 😍🙏 god’s bless you and Combodia 🙏❤️😻😍😂😊🍀
Thank you so much Nikki! 🙂🙏🙂🙏
I have lived in Cambodia for 8 years you are right the people are lovely, I was there all through Covid, I never felt worried or at risk.
Hi Jay, I definitely felt some concern in those first few months. It was low-level worry and by mid 2020 we were both feeling pretty good about being unable to return to Australia! 🙂🙏
@@ForRiel for me there was nothing in Cambodia in 2020 as there were very few tests, it all started in feb 2021 when 2 Chinese hookers escaped quarantine and they receive a load of test kits and started testing. Shows there is something wrong with all of it when the world went crazy in 2020 and we had no real problems till 22021
We were very lucky to be 'stuck' in Cambodia for Covid. Everyone was extremely nice to us and we felt very safe.
I have seen Cambodians buy food for the beggars in the market. They just tell the food vendor to whatever they want.
That's lovely! I will look out for that in future. 🙂🙏
these are some great stories. making feel proud of my heritage 🇰🇭
👆First' (50) people to contact me, will receive my trading strategies for free and grow 500$ to 10,000$ in less than a week.
So many more great stories in the comments here too!
hey, we have the same surname !! I thought i was the last of my generation ! Im in Straya but our family is from Kampong Chnang
Great stories, thanks Claire! I have been in Cambodia only for a few days (up to now!) But for three days we had a remarkable guide in Siem Reap. His name is Chy Choun. He was friendly, very funny and full of knowledge. He impressed us as a guide with a very personal attitude. I think he is part of my reasons to come back. And you will know the English saying: people make places!
Sounds like your guide Choun played a big part in making your stay memorable. I always tell people that the first time they go to Angkor they should go with a guide. You just learn so much more about the temples and having someone on hand that you can ask questions of is great as well. Thanks so much for being here and sharing your story too! 🙂🙏
That's make me in tears just to listen to ur warm heart voice .love to Cambodian people 🙏❤️🥲
Awww, your people are so wonderful, Pumpkin! We loves you! :0)
@@ForRiel love u all too darling ❤️❤️
Wonderful recap of I'm sure just a few of the lovely Cambodian people you've encountered! The hairdresser in particular stood out, for giving more than a pedicure, she gave the lady dignity. I'm a big believer in RAK/random acts of kindness (RAK=Love in Thai language). It doesn't need to cost anything to make someone smile and usually leaves you smiling as well. Same experience here in Thailand, too many instances of wonderful people to list. We're so fortunate to live in this part of the world. STL
Hey STL, yes the hairdresser's kindness to that woman really spoke to me as well. Just to have someone treat her like that must have meant so much. It's great to hear that the same acts of kindness are going on in Thailand as well. It's one of the many reasons we love Southeast Asia! Happy side-trippin' 🙏🙂
Thank you 🙏 welcome to Cambodia
Thank you so much! 🙂🙏
Thank you for sharing that. I have been to China, Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand and find all of them dramatically more kind than the US. I am planning to go to Cambodia on my next visit to SE Asia and it’s on top of my list for expatriating. Your stories are striking as that is what I’m seeking. I am a kind thoughtful person and am shocked by the violence, armed car jackings, disregard for elders, screaming that I see Americans display every day on my walks. Thank you 🙏🏼
We are really fearful of the gun violence we read about in the US. There are many US retirees here, and I guess that says something. I hope you find the place that's right for you. We love it here but understand that it's not for everyone.
Good luck always. healthy greetings. greetings have fun
Thank you so much, and to you as well!
Great video! The Cambodians are certainly kind, caring people. I’ve lived in Taiwan since 1989. The day my wife and I arrived in Taipei we were standing in the rain , lost and confused, trying to find our way to a travelers’ hostel. In those days there were no English signs anywhere and very, very few people spoke English. We were staring at our Lonely Planet guide book , trying to figure out how to get to the hostel. Suddenly a young Taiwanese man on a scooter stopped and asked us where we wanted to go (in English!). After we told him he stopped a taxi and told the driver our destination. The kind young man gave the taxi driver the fare before we could stop him, smiled and rode off! Such kindness and generosity to total strangers blew us away. At that moment we knew we had arrived in a wonderful country! I’m still here 34 years later. I’ve had , and witnessed many more similar experiences.
We love Taiwan also and almost moved there. One our first day of hiring a scooter we accidentally turned onto the highway, the police helped us off and they were so nice it was amazing! We are hoping to get back there sometime this year.
@@ForRiel Yes, the police here are the most polite, relaxed police I have encountered anywhere in the world. If you come to the far south of Taiwan and you have time it would be nice to have coffee or something with you two.
Very heart warming story
Thanks so much, Calvin! 🙏😁🍍
I was also stuck in Cambodia during 2020, until October when I was able to leave on a flight to Seul, South Korea. I remember how it was going to the supermarket then, I used to go to Angkor Market, Lucky and Makro, sure I was wearing a mask all the time, there was no vaccine yet, but there was also an impression that Cambodia was somehow Covid free . Cases exploded after I left in October, I believe.
It was the strangest of times living in Cambodia in 2020. So many people became hermits in their houses and owners of many of the smaller shops stopped letting customers go inside. I remember going to the supermarket and grabbing things as quickly as I could to avoid being in there too long. It's such a relieve that things are coming back to normal. 🙂🙏
My favorite people in the world… I went to the water festival in Phnom Penh. There were lots of viewers around the river. When my viewer neighbors knew that we were visitors, they gave us their seats… impressive!
Haha that's the worst because then you feel bad for taking their seats but they won't take no for an answer! 🙂🙏
@@ForRiel Yep
Good Speak! Thank you! and Always Welcome to Cambodia.
Thank you for your hospitality in Cambodia! 🙂🙏
Thank you so much 😊
Thank you for watching! 😍
When I was there a few years ago, I was struck by the sweetness, gentleness, and kindness of people there. Several times I was shown generosity when I could have easily been taken for a few more dollars. When I was buying kitchen stuff for my apartment at Phsar Leu, the person threw in an extra plate and bowl for free. When I was at Phsar Samaki getting some different fruits to try out, the lady threw in a handful of mangosteens. Generosity was always shown with a smile and I was so blown away that people who have so little were so giving. Also, I would see people being so sweet and gentle with a puppy or their child. It was such a refreshing change from the snarky culture in the States. When I return, I want to find ways to give back, especially for UXO removal.
I think if you are open and friendly people are mostly that way back here. Of course you might be over charged here sometimes but that's life.
Alot of great points
Cheers Tom! Hope you are going well. 🙂🙏
@@ForRiel yea so far so good! - Im going to Kampot this coming weekend for the first time. So thatll be fun weekend.
I love and glad to hear you are having or had great experiences with the people. I agreed, majority of the khmer people are genuinely nice and kind people, not just friendly to tourists but in general.
Thank you so much! 100% agree :)
Thank you this episode, it is very touching. From my experience having lived there the first 11 years of my life and having visited several times, I fully understand and share your sentiments. I tried to tell others, but unfortunately some Cambodians abroad have taken on such arrogant and misleading attitudes, they only see the bad parts. Very sad. Thank you again for these stories.
Thanks for sharing! It's a shame that some people didn't agree with you but it says more about them than it does about the Cambodia and its people. It's so much better to look at the good as it by far outweighs the bad. 🙂🙏
I'm so thankful for you sharing this story. Because I'm Cambodian🇰🇭
Thank you so much for watching!
These stories have influenced me more to come to Cambodia 🇰🇭 even more. Thank you so much for sharing your experience. Thank god covid days are nearly behind us & visit this incredible country in the distant future. Any updates of your return to Cambodia 🇰🇭?
That's so great, Mike. It's great to read all of the stories here in the comments as well. Cambodia is really moving on from Covid and the future for visiting looks good. We will be visiting later this year, but not sure about the bigger picture at the moment. 🙂🙏
My name is Sid. Thanks Claire, for passing many news, information, and caring about our people and motherland, Cambodia. I am a Cambodian born. Been residing in the USA since after the war, in 1981. Yes, that is our root of culture, giving and caring for each other. Because of being so nice, that is why we have lost some lands to our neighbor counties. Come to my thought and feelings, I want to move back to my country with some ideas to help and improve poverty life. Hope my dream come true, soon.
Thank you so much for commenting, Sid! Giving and caring is wonderful and I think there should be more of it in the west. I hope you will be able to return to Cambodia one day soon. 🙏🛵🐒🛵🙏
Your video made me cry…
The first story always makes me teary because we felt very alone. Thank you for watching. 🙂🙏🙂🙏
Your acknowledgment about Cambodian people is much appreciated, and thank you for sharing your experience in Cambodia to the world. I also want to thank Australia and her people for helping Cambodia during difficult times. And Cambodia will always welcome you with open arm and warmth heart.
Thank you so much for your kind words. We felt very fortunate to be in Cambodia when the pandemic started and we will always remember our time there with warmth. 🙂🙏
Lovely and very good to hear.
Thank you so much!
Yes, you're alive. Take care and stay safe. 🙏
Absolutely! 🙂🙏
I'll be there in Phnom Penh end of July. Looking forward to teaching English there.
Nice! Check out Tom Trips Out on UA-cam. He's teaching in PP.
@@ForRiel I've been going through his channel already. Using the same service he did but have to go to Ho Chi Minh for the training. I'm also a tennis coach so PP is my best bet to do that as well. I'm excited to get started.
Thanks darling.love u both too❤️❤️🙏🙏
🤗❤️❤️❤️❤️
Thanks for the video !
My pleasure! 🙏🙂
Cambodian people tend to be helpful and not as arrogant as some other!
Yes, I agree 100% ! 🙂🙏
Cambodian people are absolutely wonderful. So kind and polite. Very helpful and generous. Hope to be back in Siem Reap soon. I am going to do some voluntary work and especially with animals. Would love to get your advice.
Oh that's wonderful that you are heading back to Siem Reap soon! There's a great vet called Animal Mama and there's also Josette, the lovely lady who looks after pagoda cats. I would suggest joining the Facebook group called Reaper Babes. It is a friendly and safe space and you will get great responses if you post there. 🙂🙏
Thank you for that. I am sure it will be most helpful. Will let you know how I go when I get there. At present I am living in Melbourne and am a retired nurse. Will have plenty of time on my hands. My daughter works for an NGO that looks after Asia and the Pacific and she will be coming with me. Thank you for your help. Trudi.
Thank you so much 💛 Cambodia 💛
Thank you wonderful Cambodia for keeping us safe during Covid! ❤️❤️
Lovely video 🥰🇰🇭🇰🇭
Thank you 🤗
I was born in Cambodia and I was proud of the country and life there until the victory of the Khmer Rouge. Since then, I only have bad memories that I can't forget for all my life. I still regret the loss of life of millions of kind, gentle and harmless people hoping for rescue from the trap of the Communists by some outside forces.
Now I am not able to return back to the country because the millions of dead Cambodians still haunt me
I am so sorry that you are still so impacted by the terrible things that happened in Cambodia. Those poor, beautiful people who died will never be forgotten. 🙏
@@ForRiel Thank you very much Claire !
Awww lovely video
Thank you Sam! 🙂🙏
Thanks for loving our country and Khmer people. Greentings from Prey Nokor Sài Gòn city
Thank you so much for watching! We have so much love for Cambodia and its people. 🙂🙏
I would suggest the majority of us foreigners here in Cambodia would have the upmost admiration and respect for the Cambodian people who live their lives in the most challenging conditions
Hi Barrie, I agree. I'm full of admiration and respect for the Cambodian people. 🙂🙏🙂🙏
I actually got back from Africa in Ethiopia they are the best people I have met around the world and with rich culture, spirituality and amazing food. I plan to go back visit more often. I learn also thr ark of the covenant reside in Ethiopia and coffee was discovered in Ethiopia. So much amazing stories to expirence in one trip.
Wow, we have never been to Africa, and Ethiopia sounds like a wonderful place to visit. Have you been to other countries in Africa? 🛵🙏🙂
In the old day, rural area in Cambodia had no hotel or motel, but if you stranded somewhere, someone would invite you to their house and let you stay overnight and shared dinner with you. After Khmer Rouge people continued to practice this way. On my way to Thai border, few nights I strain in places that I did not know anybody, so I walked to one house in the areas and asked a place to sleep and I always got a place to sleep even though I was a complete stranger to them. Helping other without expect a return will reward with a great felling especially those desperately need help.
That's fantastic! What a great way for people to care for each other, and so nice that you always found somewhere to stay! Thank you so much for sharing. 🙂🙏
As a Cambodian origin. Thank you for speaking so kindly of our Khmer peoples.
Thank you so much! 🙏🙂
I met a poor Cambodian woman that raises an orphan with mental disability. This family really touched me…
That is a really tough thing to do. Wonderful that this woman is looking after the child. 🙂🙏
Beautiful people
The best!
Definitely, the reason we are here, the people! So, so many stories of how amazing and caring the people are here. Throughout Covid we had so many Cambodians support Heartprint's food relief, it was so heartwarming to know people with very little still wanted to help out and support those with less. I don't think you will find another country where the people have so little and are so generous. We see this on a daily basis. ❤️
Yes! It's wonderful how everyone gives what they can even if it's only a little. It breeds a culture of support that is really lacking in the western world. It's amazing how acts of charity have a snowball effect and people get on board to create a bigger impact. Thank you for everything Heartprint does to help people in Siem Reap province. 🙂🙏
Thank you Claire and Jeremy.
Early in the morning, the monks from the temples and monasteries go on their rounds. They will stop in front of restaurants and other businesses, and just stand still for a minute to see if anyone would donate some food or little bit of money.
At the mom and pop restaurant I used to have breakfast at, the monks would stop. A few Khmer folks and myself would go to them, remove our sandals, and give a small donation, and squat down to receive their blessings. Usually a chant in Pali from the Tripitaka.
There was also a blind man with really no eyes, and another man who lost his forearms when a small anti-personal mine exploded when we was helping recover land mines. I would donate a bit of money whenever I saw them, and also buy them a little meal a a nice little Mexican and Thai food restaurant. (Funny that I found amazing Mexican tacos in Siem Reap, Cambodia)
There are two families, related to each other, living in a village far outside Siem Reap, in very bad poverty...My tuk tuk driver I hired and became friends was really their only source of suport. ( he drives a beat up older motorbike pulling a carriage for people to sit in. Different from the Thai tuk tuks.) Then one day, at his invitation, I went to the village with him and met his wife and kids, and his father and step mother and their kids. The whole village is in bad poverty. (Some villages are worse than others.) I would often go with my driver and visit the two families. Share a few beers with my driver and his older father (who is in poor health) Total of 13 in the two familes. Some grown and moved away to other cities to try to earn a living. They had me stay with them a few nights when it was too late to go back to the city. Believe me..... certainly most westerners would not want to live the way those men, women and children live... it's pretty sad.
The roosters would wake me each morning at 4:30 a.m. People rise early in the village. The roosters letting everyone know it's time to get up. (Hens and roosters and baby chickens just walk around free).
When you get the heavy tropical rains brought by the south west Monsoons.... it's VERY LOUD in their shack homes.... the rain hitting the currogated tin roofs. Unbelievable heavy rain and so loud. I never experienced rain as heavy as I have in S.E. Asia.
I help the two families to this day, and they wait for me to return. I have an open offer from them to stay with them in their simple shacks, and not rent an apartment when I come back. They all call me "Papa". Even our welfare cases in Canada live much better than they do. But they are wonderful people and they say I am family now.
My driver is the only one with a cell phone..... an older second hand simple smart phone. He needs it for his little tuk tuk business. That is how we keep in touch. He sends me photos and videos of the families, and sometimes we do a live chat together... all of us so we get to see each other in both families.
Once they have accepted you.....you become family. no matter who you are. It matters not how much, or how little you have in this life. What matters is who you are in your heart.
Are there also some petty criminals? Yes... but few. Be careful carrying your bag, some guys on motorcyles might ride close to you and grab it. (Never happened to me. but it can happen.)
I did run into a couple scams. But they are simply because some people are desperately poor and want to feed the kids, or being controlled by others. (The "milk" for baby scam (that is an interesting story...many western tourists fall for it) , or a tuk tuk driver taking you to your destination but taking you by a much longer way.
And of course "Do you want to buy some good stuff ? " (drugs) from a few tuk tuk drivers. ALWAYS say "No thank you" You could be stuck paying off the police to not arrest you.
We are guests when we are living there... respect all the laws and respect the people and Buddhism or other local religion. . And that is how you should act in every country. Just be good... and 99% of the time you will have a wonderful time.
Blessings.... 🙏🏼 ☸ 🌴
This is so wonderful, Robert. The chanting in Pail is interesting and I didn't realise until quite recently that most Cambodian people don't understand what the monks are saying when they chant. I love learning about Buddhism, particularly the old stories depicted in the temple paintings. We never had any issues with theft or petty crime, and I think it just goes to being aware of your surroundings and being sensible with belongings. Jeremy was targeted by tuk tuk drivers wanting to sell drugs much more often than I was, but it did happen now and then. Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts and stories, I just love reading them! 🙂🙏
I would be very interested on you views on the new Cambodia 2nd Home initiative. They are offering a 10 year golden visa with unlimited exit/reentry and a path to citizenship after five years. Detailed information is lacking at the moment even on the official website. A $100,000 USD investment is required but, as I said, no details. What have you heard?
Hi Dennis, I read that the $100k investment has to be in property development of some kind. I think this initiative is really only for expats already living in Cambodia, and I would definitely be getting legal/immigration advice before even considering this option. It's not worth doing for the visa benefits as Cambodia's visa system is so easy already. I think this visa is aimed at Chinese developers.