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Cambodian dating culture.
Cambodia is a country steeped in tradition and yet modernity. The traditional values of the Cambodian people are evident in their dating culture.
Although some aspects of Cambodian dating culture may seem conservative, there are some big differences that foreign men and women need to be aware of before they start dating in Cambodia.
In this post, we’ll give you some tips and advice on what to expect when dating in Cambodia.
Here’s a guide to Cambodian dating culture, customs, and etiquette.
Gender Roles in Cambodian Dating Culture.
Cambodian society is still quite patriarchal and so the traditional gender roles of men and women are still very evident in the dating culture.
Men are typically expected to take the lead in relationships and will usually pay for dates.
Women are expected to be more demure and submissive.
However, these traditional gender roles are gradually changing as more and more young Cambodians are exposed to Western ideas about relationships and dating.
Traditional Dating Etiquette in Cambodia.
While the traditional gender roles might be changing, there are still some traditional etiquette rules that apply to dating in Cambodia.
For example, it is always best to dress conservatively on dates, especially if you are a woman. It is also customary for the man to pay for any dates that you go on.
Dates in Cambodia usually involve going out for dinner or drinks, or perhaps going to see a movie.
There is no such thing as “Netflix and chill” here! You might also find that your date will want to meet your family before things get too serious.
This is completely normal and just part of the Cambodian dating culture.
Meeting Your Significant Other’s Family.
As I mentioned above, it is not uncommon for your date to want to meet your family before things start getting serious.
In Cambodia, families are extremely important and so your date will likely want their approval before taking things any further with you. I
f you’re thinking about moving to Cambodia with your significant other, then it is definitely worth getting to know their family first.
They will be a big part of your life if you do end up moving here!
How Online Dating Is Changing Cambodian Relationships.
Like in many parts of the world, online dating has become increasingly popular in Cambodia over the last few years.
Tinder is by far the most popular dating app in use here and you can find all sorts of interesting people using it: from foreigners looking for love to locals looking for something more casual.
As with anything, there are advantages and disadvantages to using online dating apps; but overall they have had a positive impact on the Cambodian dating scene.
Cambodian Courtship Rituals.
If you’re planning on getting married in Cambodia, then there are some specific courtship rituals that you need to be aware of.
Firstly, it is customary for the bride’s family to pay a dowry to the groom’s family before the wedding can take place.
This dowry can be either money or goods, but it is usually money.
Secondly, there is usually a large feast held at the bride’s house on the eve of the wedding where all of her friends and family come to wish her well (and eat all of her food!).
On the day of the wedding itself, there is another feast held at the groom’s house; this one traditionally includes roasted pig as one of the main dishes!
After these two feasts have taken place, then (and only then) can the actual wedding ceremony take place!
The Do’s and Don’ts of Dating in Cambodia.
Cambodian dating culture can be a bit of a minefield for foreign men and women.
There are some traditional values that you need to be aware of before you start dating in Cambodia.
But don’t worry, we’re here to help!
Do: Be Respectful of Your Date’s Culture and Traditions.
The first and most important thing to remember when dating in Cambodia is to be respectful of your date’s culture and traditions.
Cambodian people are very proud of their culture and heritage, so you must show respect for their values.
For example, you should always dress modestly when you’re on a date, especially if you’re going to be meeting your date’s family or friends.
It’s also a good idea to avoid talking about sensitive topics like politics or religion.
Don’t: Expect Your Date to Speak English Fluently.
Although more and more young Cambodians are learning English, it’s still not the first language for most people in the country.
So don’t expect your date to be able to converse fluently in English.
It’s always a good idea to learn at least a few basic phrases in Khmer (the Cambodian language) before you start dating.
That way, you can at least communicate with your date even if they don’t speak much English.
Do: Be Prepared to DEAT During Your Date.
If you’re going on a date with a Cambodian person, be prepared to DEAT (drink, eat, and talk).
As we mentioned before, food is very important in Cambodian culture.
So it’s not uncommon for a date to consist of going out for dinner and then talking over drinks afterward.
That being said, don’t feel like you have to drink alcohol if you’re not comfortable with it.
There are plenty of non-alcoholic beverages that you can order at most restaurants and bars.
Don’t: Talk About Your Ex on the First Date.
This one should be pretty self-explanatory but we’ll say it anyway: don’t talk about your ex on the first date!
It’s considered rude and insensitive, and it will probably make your date feel uncomfortable.
If you want to make a good impression, focus on getting to know your date and finding out about their interests and hobbies.
Conclusion.
There is no doubt that Cambodian dating culture is unique, but it isn’t necessarily any better or worse than other types of dating cultures around the world.
Remember, the most important thing is to be respectful of your date’s culture and traditions.
If you do that, then you’re sure to have a great time dating in Cambodia!