🇰🇭| EXTREME RAW OPINIONS ABOUT CAMBODIA ⚠️ Street Interview Tourists

[@connielinz879]

My husband and I went to Siem Reap in December 2022 and highly recommend getting a guide when you explore the temples of Angkor Wat. Our guide was not only informative, he was an amazing photographer as well, and took some amazing photos of us at this 8th Wonder of the World, that we now cherish. We look forward to going back to Cambodia and exploring the rest of this amazing country.

[@Chai_Travel]

Sounds like you had a really great time! So glad you’re planning on returning to Cambodia 😍🥰 I am totally with you on getting a guide. I think the Scottish lady was on a group tour (which also can be nice) but getting a local to guide you in this area adds so much value 😊

[@zanastar]

@@Chai_Travel ❤️️🇰🇭

[@neakchorn]

Laura misinterprets Cambodian culture; calling someone older “ grandma or mom ” actually it is a very respectful word for senior people there. I think it’s different world.

[@Chai_Travel]

I didn’t wanna diss agree with her at the time but yes I agree with you 🙏

[@maxmeggeneder8935]

Exactly

[@kitty_s23456]

@neakchorn - I agree with you. In most Asian cultures, it's common to address someone older than you as brother/ sister, uncle/ auntie, dad/ mom, grandpa/ grandma - depending on the age of the person you're addressing. It's sometimes considered impolite to call them just by their name. Sometimes, they're called sir/ ma'am, just to be safe.

[@4985muhammadali]

In India we called ( Maaji, Maasi, Daadi, Naani) ❤ to our elders and respect them a lot.

[@flyrodmike]

I think she has a self image that is younger than her appearance and she therefore has trouble accepting the age she presents. She definitely has the appearance (and age) of a grandma. And most people love grandmas.

[@reanthort]

Thank you for having me ❤

[@Chai_Travel]

Man, thank YOU for being on the show! Hopefully we stay in touch 😊 cheers! 🍺

[@saravuthkeo8522]

I really like your feedback/input for Cambodia.

[@jorgenrh7598]

The khmer culture and traditions highly respect the elderly generation. So, being called granny and mama is a way of showing great respect for you. Respect the culture and remember you are a guest in the actual country you visit. Before you judge, make sure you're qualified to make judgements.

[@samproximax1790]

she did mention that it's a cultural thing, but probably it's a bit hard for her to filter in coming from a culture that doesnt tolerate that at all. so yes, it's just a cultural thing. and yes, for khmer women at her age, if not being called grandma, they would get offended too. so, it's the complete contrast.

[@ShawnVanNinja]

She spoke bad about Ankor wat. She has a bad spirit. Hopefully she never returns to Cambodia

[@TimeIdle]

Being from the West, she interpreted it as being ageist. She has a complex of being older. :)

[@sonievkay]

laura seems highly sensitive. considering she’s traveled the world i expected her to be a little more open minded about the cultural differences and not bring her own european cultural idea into how things are. what she considered disrespectful in actuality, was respect and not meant to be offensive or rude. as someone who loves history and studying artifacts, etc. going to angkor wat is definitely up there and it’s best to get a tour guide who are knowledgeable about what you are looking at.

[@MTry5049]

I think the Cambodian guy described it best. Keep an open mind and just use your best judgement common sense when you’re out and about. And that applies to every country you visit. I used to live in San Francisco and got mugged in the best neighborhood (Nob Hill), getting off from work at 11 o’clock at night. What can I say I let my guards down, thinkin I was safe. Thank you Chai for keeping it real. I love all of your videos from all different countries

[@MissGoggles1980]

Foreigners need to understand in the khmer culture we dont address each other by our given names.. we call each other sister brother uncle aunty grandma grandpa... even though we are not related, it's a form of respect for one another.

[@ShawnVanNinja]

She was negative when she stepped off the plane. So I'm sure she is complaining about everywhere she goes.

[@coreana.aesthetics]

Calling someone grandma is considered as respectful and polite act in Cambodia. She misinterpreted it, but it is okay. You can learn from this as culture is different from one country to another.

[@Nan-x3r]

In Khmer culture, we do not call elderly people by there names; it's offensive and disrespectful. We, as young people, when we feel close to elderly people, call them "Mea" (Mom) out of respect and closure. Even if they are the same age, if they meet for the first time, we call each other "Bong" (Brother or Sister) out of respect; we don't want to offend someone by miscalling them. I guess this is a culture different . btw good content this the way that we can openly to understand each other.

[@bushputz]

I came to Cambodia on a three-four week scouting trip to see if it could be a good fit. About 2-3 weeks in, I realized I didn't want to go back to the rat race in the U.S.. I called work, thanked them for all they've done for me, and said I'm not coming back. The next day I signed a 6-month lease, upgraded to the 1 year ER (retirement) visa, and I've been living in Siem Reap for almost 4 months now. My lease expires in March, and I'm thinking about moving to Kampot, at least for the hot season.

[@oppozoon3260]

❤អរគុណច្រើនៗ😘

[@dennisstoichkov8233]

Wow! Any regrets, or are you confident that you made the right decision?

[@Chai_Travel]

Wow that's amazing! So glad you found your home 😊 and hopefully the next one soon in Kampot 😍

[@kitty_s23456]

@bushputz - congrats on your retirement. I think Kampot will be a nice change for you. It will be slightly cooler (1 to 2 degrees) because of the sea breeze. I've been to SR in May and it was very hot & humid. Good luck on your move!

[@bushputz]

@@dennisstoichkov8233 The longer I stay, the more comfortable I get with my decision. I have family back in the U.S., and of course I miss them. A couple of my siblings are thinking about coming out to visit me, and I plan to go back to the States on occasion. I still don't know if my move is permanent, but right now, it feels good. Thanks!

[@stevens8785]

It is always good to get a mixture of experiences whether they be good or not so good. Well done Chai. As the Cambodian guy toward the end made quite clear travelers can come across problems wherever in the world they visit. Being alert and keeping possessions safely tucked away out of sight, most importantly respecting others and their culture, always being polite and smiling and being aware of places not to go at nighttime that may have a bad reputation. Everyone should do their own research in any case. Having said that you cannot get much better information than that provided from actual real life experiences. These videos provide exactly that. Great work Chai 🤩

[@nickwilliams5759]

No wonder grandma Scotland had a terrible time - she’s got a terrible attitude!

[@Chai_Travel]

Always a pleasure Steven! I agree, still I feel a little responsible when people don’t have a good time in South East Asia. I hope people lower expectations, go with an open mind, and be a bit street smart. They will have the best time

[@AnajakKhmer-yaung]

I've been to Cambodia for 11 days and love it. The foods, friendly locals, and historical sites brought me back many times😂😂😂😂🤣

[@Chai_Travel]

Glad you enjoyed it! It is a truly amazing country! 😁

[@PaulEm2018]

When I first arrived to the US, I used to call older people not by their names but by their status. They weren’t happy until I had explained my Khmer culture and traditions to them. My parents always tell me to be respectful to the elders. We do not address them by their names.

[@readwrite1815]

Cambodia is a perfect place for expats and digital nomads. It is a well-organized country with hospitable people. Cambodia has a good balance of affordability, intrigue, food culture, openness, variety, development, safety, low crime rates, amenities, and ease of immigration. Good infrastructure and best health care system are also key factors. You can live a peaceful and convenient life in Cambodia. 🏡

[@Wouter_asia]

It all depends on personal views a d expectations. I lived 1 year in PP. Love the country and the people....but I need little bit more structure , balance...I will come back and have Cambodia foreverin my heart. Living in Thailand now

[@PuppyP40]

Poor transportation, a lot of scammer call center, lots of Chinese who do grey business

[@chantucha]

Nice Video, Chai. The last guy name is Rean Thort, a very famous Khmer KZbinr. Glad that you met him.

[@Chai_Travel]

That’s right! He a very nice guy 🤩❤️

[@VyKetetrorp]

My mother would slap my mouth hard if I dared to call an elder by their name instead of addressing them as Aunt, Granny, or Sister. And for those Cambodians who called her Granny or Grandma, I believe they had the same experience as me back home 😂😂

[@laykhom3212]

Best street interview ever ❤Nicely done Chai.

[@BayanAl-x7v]

Laura from Scotland is an inspiration to me. I enjoyed her dialogue with you! I am so motivated to experience Cambodia.

[@Chai_Travel]

Thanks so much! I think Laura is awesome too! 🙏You’ll love it here 🥰

[@TimK2646]

The Mon-Khmer people also invaded Burma and my brother in law is Mon. .They brought so much culture and education into Burma. Respect Cambodia.

[@SurperGavi]

Welcome and thank you for helping spread the word about Cambodia. Cambodian love you ❤🥰

[@noblenb]

If you are called Mother, mama, or granny by the local people it show respect and love.

[@JohnChann-w2s]

Hi I would like to add my two cents. I'm 55 yr old retired lawman in MA. I was born in battombong Cambodia. I know this for a fact, the term grandmother isn't reserved for relatives like the western culture. So please advise the older woman not to feel bad. It's just different culture. Like your video, thanks.

[@endlesssummer9139]

Thank you for compliments about my beautiful Cambodia 🇰🇭.

[@kivapon4166]

If you want real smiles from people and real warmth. I dare say Cambodia is the best. If you come and the people don't welcome you, you can blame me.🥰

[@janeenkledlow5419]

Excellent! Great video!

[@ComB4tZ]

Thank you for interviewing them which allowed me to comprehend. more about Cambodia

[@leonchea8235]

Yes, you should go to Mondulkiri Province. I felt in love with the province when I went there in 2023, beautiful scenery, less tourists, a lot of beautiful hills and forests, water falls and awesome people.

[@antruok4950]

Luv the follow up interviews in Phnom Penh ✔️ - the Scottish lady’s claims were interesting 🤩 , everyone speaks well , particularly the Cambodian guy - great work again my friend ✔️👋👌👍🙏

[@Chai_Travel]

Thanks again mate. Glad you enjoyed the interviews. Happy days!

[@Chrischillen]

Dope video man! As a Cambodian American, it's great to see stuff like this! Keep the vibes 🤙🏾 *to my opinion, that Scottish lady shouldn't be traveling anywhere with an attitude like that lolll

[@Chai_Travel]

Thanks for watching! Haha she was ready to go home. But I really appreciate her input regardless.

[@borachhay7201]

Welcome back to Cambodia . Good that you interview some tourists . I like to hear some little thing about Litters and Cleanliness . Good luck and be safe 😊

[@saravuthkeo8522]

Thank you for advocating for Cambodia. I just subscribed to your channel. I'm sure your valuable work or video is very much appreciated. I'm a Khmer person by the way.

[@droche21]

It's remarkable how well the country functions given a 1/4 of their population was wiped out in the 70s and before that, the US bombed the shit out of them for shits and giggles basically. And then, a civil war up until 1998. The resolve of the people is immense. Pnomh Penh was better than I even expected. Historically fascinating, and even the 'tourist' areas like Bassac Lane were just so safe and didn't feel cheap or sleazy at all.

[@Swampzoid]

If people watch your videos before going to Cambodia, they should watch many videos and do a lot of research - not just depend on what one person reports. Great interviews

[@Chai_Travel]

Absolutely agree, I always suggest that people watch a variety of different videos (not only Chai Travel :p) and do their own research 🙂 Thanks again ❤️

[@bushputz]

I'm a 67 year old American that's spent the last 5 years worrying about retirement. My SS benefits and 401K would get me a shoe box apartment in the States, and I'd end up with a fast food / cat food diet. For the past year or two, I've watched hundreds of videos of people extolling the virtues of this country or that for retirement. The more I watched, the more I realized that SE Asia would be my best bet. I narrowed my search down to Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Cambodia. The Visa situation is what really clinched it for me. My nephew lived in Thailand for 3 years, and married a Thai woman. I thought about retiring there until I saw the visa restrictions - 90 day check-ins and minimum balances on a savings account. Too much hassle. I've been living in Siem Reap for almost 4 months now, and the longer I stay, the more I like it. It's a beautiful country, very affordable, and the people are just wonderful. Plus, I can get a great meal for just a couple of bucks (or less!).

[@CG-hq3ek]

The lady said she has travelled a lot, but seems like she has not learnt anything about cultural difference. She feels disrespected by a word that locals use to respect people. She should adjust to the local culture, not vice-versa. Yet she mentioned she didn't experience that in other SE ASIA countries, as if Cambodia were the same as their neighbour countries. Complaining about the crowds in Angkor Wat? Oh well, maybe she has been a solo traveller for way too long.

[@Chai_Travel]

Maybe, I still really respect her the way she was happy to have this conversation on camera:)

[@Nicktergrefte]

Nice video! I'm visiting Cambodia tomorrow for about 3-4 weeks, lets see😁

[@4985muhammadali]

Nice street interview❤ Chai and maybe because of old age laura granny doesn't like to be called mommy or granny i understand.. I know some people even i encounter one incident in front of me..

[@everydaylife216]

🙏🙏🙏 thank Chai for the video ❤❤❤

[@Chai_Travel]

Thank you too for watching again🙏

[@rathapoth]

We value all visitor feedback regarding their experiences, both positive and negative, to ensure our nation is optimally prepared for the tourism sector and national development.

[@swixk]

The lady misunderstands completely the Khmer people and culture (they aren't allowed to call elders by their first names but grandpa, grandma, mummy, uncle, brother, etc...)! I'm pretty sure it's not only in Cambodia as she mentioned. In many Asian countries, this is the way.

[@chietthach1389]

enjoy your trip around the small world of Cambodia

[@TharitMocha]

ពូ រៀនថត interview Very nice❤❤ @reanthort

[@ThaiBunchhi]

❤Really love them❤🙏

[@henglove341]

Thanks chai ❤love u

[@_Versz]

This guy getting sent over to Cambodia and not getting married is going to get a reality check at the embassy if they are not married.

[@matt55592]

2:39 I agree with this. I’ve noticed in PP the other foreigners aren’t very friendly which I find strange? as he said, I will try to make eye contact and smile but it’s never reciprocated

[@Chai_Travel]

That’s such a shame. Hopefully I’ll be able to make my fellow travelers aware to smile a bit more :)

[@VyKetetrorp]

@matt55592 Yeah , I noticed from watching many vlogs that they are not as friendly as Khmer people, and I have also experienced unfriendly behavior from some foreigners. I'm not used to it, and I find it difficult to live like that. I just love how we Khmer people make eye contact and smile at each other.

[@VyKetetrorp]

@@Chai_Travel Yeah, just smile along the way and look at them-Khmer people won’t waste even a second to return your smile.😁

[@ALKT101]

hi there! love your content. planing on visiting in few weeks. i do have the Bakong Tourists app setup ready to go. can it be use everywhere even small vendors ? is it effective to use when paired with travel cards like wise,revolut ? thanks!

[@Chai_Travel]

Thank you! I’m not familiar with Bakong Tourist App. Small venders are happy if you carry small bills. Paying contactless with Revolut works perfectly places where you can pay with card. I’d recommend to always carry some cash (80USD) with you just in case.

[@samrachchan7995]

Almost all local vendors now have KHQR which you can scan to pay via the Bakong app even small vendors. If you don’t want to link your bank card to the Bakong app you can top up by going to any bank especially the bank that available at the airport and giving them cash. They will transfer the amount to your account. Anyway I recommend you to exchange a small amount of local money just in case you have problem with internet here or they don't have the KHQR.

[@ALKT101]

@ thank you 🙏

[@angrybirdman1]

Hi , The Bakong app is now available nationwide, offering a seamless and convenient cashless payment solution. As a new innovation launched this year, it is not yet widely known, so we encourage tourists to explore and use it during their time in Cambodia. This modern alternative helps avoid challenges associated with cash transactions, such as currency discrepancies with USD. Enjoy the ease and efficiency of going cashless while experiencing the best of what Cambodia has to offer. Wishing you all the best!

[@mimibigdy1917]

Great time in Cambodia,

[@JWnFlorida]

Cambodia is awesome.

[@ikigai_001]

Most Westerners can't seem to leave their egos at home, dont they? You can't even make them to patiently wait and adapt to the change in pace.

[@Chai_Travel]

😅 I wouldn’t say most

[@_Versz]

Chai interviews a few people. All of a sudden that must be everyone. There are bad foreigners and bad locals in every country of the world sir.

[@2009chumpchange]

Look. I've lived in Asia off n on since 1970, 9 years old to 64 years old. I'm in Vietnam living currently. I Speak Korean. Westerners, please understand Asian languages use titles when addressing u. Otherwise it's rude. Asia rarely uses "you". Its rude! So, uncle, aunt, older brother, older sister, grandma are respectful titles to address u. If you don't get it, ask a question and leave the western assumptions behind. But, yesterday returning to Vietnam from 0:08 Thailand, I had to really light up some rude grab ride drivers at the airport. But that's different. I'm surrounded by 5 guys hammering me. It happens and it happens everywhere! Nothing is perfect. But each place is unique and an opportunity to expand.

[@bunlenglay]

wow pu @reanthort was there too !

[@Chai_Travel]

You better believe it 🤩

[@sophiakeo9115]

When is Brian coming back to seattle? next time i want to come too! How many people is Brian coming with??? We should b new friends with his family too, since we r very close by!!! city wise lol

[@PeterC245]

6 months ago the Cambodia government ordered all Banks they must accept US dollars at face value even if damaged

[@EvanAPW]

Granny needs to lighten up a bit.

[@Chai_Travel]

Interesting comment. She’s saying she finds it offensive to call her that way

[@EvanAPW]

@ I know, mate.

[@66praimnool]

I agree. It's a form of respect. Does she want to be called you? That's highly disrespectful in the Khmer culture. Sad she got so offended by something like that. She can stay out if she is offended. Better to not stress at that advanced in age.

[@ezsal7102]

Calling senior people by their name is kinda disrespect for Khmer culture.

[@benjamin_davis]

She explicitly asked them to stop but they just ignored her request and continued on.

[@Agentofkaos6808]

I feel sad for the old lady from Scotland because she seem grumpy and didn’t like visiting Cambodia and it’s too bad because it’s a beautiful country and nothing in Scotland that want to make me go visit there. Angkor Trump anything in Scotland as a ecological site

[@ramiphp7544]

What camera you're using please

[@KingOfgod-oh7jc]

Rean thort ma idol!

[@mateusmargon8297]

scotish lady is absolute nuts

[@denogla3570]

Actually, it's rude to call your elder by their name in Cambodia. So we call them either granny, grandma, grandmother, or in Khmer (Mak yy). Hope that clear your misunderstanding.

[@VyKetetrorp]

My mother would slap my mouth hard if I dared to call an elder by their name instead of addressing them as Aunt, Granny, or Sister.😂😂

[@peternhim7127]

Koh Rong is amazing but overrated especially prices in my opinion Chai. Last year I stayed at Royal Sands and I really love it the beach and the food the service

[@dylanlewis3668]

Please go to Koh Rong samloem this time

[@Chai_Travel]

Coming up! 🤩

[@samedyouk331]

I like your tshirt, I want one 😊

[@mateusmargon8297]

seattle guy is nice has a very good voice and spirit just need some lifiting

[@maxmeggeneder8935]

Cash and bills don´t cause you any problems in Cambodia, if you pay everything in Riel. Only bigger dollar bills will sometimes still be rejected. But the cambodian government gave out a directive that dollar bills with minor issues should be accepted by everyone. Not everyone knows that yet. But the banks are already taking 100$ bills with marks and cracks. Just a few months ago you would have had to pay them 5$ to take your damaged 100$ bill. That means more and more vendors are going to accept those bills too, because they can cash them in at their bank without loosing 5%.

[@cyrilkatatak2267]

I point out to Americans afraid to travel that we're already in a dangerous country. At least statistically. After traveling Central America of most my life then going to live in SE Asia I had to learn to let my guard down and relax. Guatemala and Cambodia may look similar in poverty but are different worlds in safety. Philippines may be a slight exception. If Central America had a baby with SE Asia = Philippines lol.

[@somenas2005]

Everyone has different opinion about everything and anything we cannot suit everyone feelings but u just have to be open minded.

[@sdfff7817]

❤❤❤

[@SimPov-j2h]

😊

[@J_River]

Yeah, Cambodia take foreigner word more seriously than a local people that’s living there. I sometimes think it’s unfair 😒

[@Chai_Travel]

I think it’s unfair if that’s really the case. At the end of the day I think we’re all the same

[@thomaskim3128]

If you can survive Los Angeles, Oakland, San Francisco, New York, or other shitholes in the USA, Cambodia would be a walk in the park.

[@raymondlianto9882]

I think Siem Reap had similar vibes with Bangkok.

[@Chai_Travel]

Really? I’d say same as Chiang Mai :)

[@zanastar]

​@@Chai_Travel I think the as Chiang Mai With Siem Reap ,but I heard from My friend @Luke Martin When I was as a local guide to show him around In Siem reap , And I am basic living in Siem Reap 😊😊❤❤🇰🇭

[@kitty_s23456]

​@@zanastarI agree. SR is more like Chiang Mai. BKK is a big, bustling city and I would say that it's more similar to Kuala Lumpur. However, BKK is more chaotic (and for some, more exciting) and KL is more organized (and for some, more boring). I like both BKK & KL. I like SR too coz it had a chill, small town vibe. I didn't like Phnom Penh much.

[@zanastar]

@@kitty_s23456 Nice 🇰🇭❤️️❤️️

[@francoiswilliams]

Tuk tuk drivers should be taught basic biz skills, stop hassling everyone

[@_Versz]

They make little money and the market is insanely competitive. Most take the first no as enough, some do keep trying to push a tour but just walk away. All they are trying to do is feed their families.

[@cooliipie]

2:12 go to China Town, or the hood

[@mikesam401]

The Second Lady a little bit drama queen.

[@StellaDigitalSolutions]

Was hoping people would be more real with you. Cambodia was my least favorite country in SEA. You’re seen as a walking wallet, very aggressive tuktuk drivers, food didn’t agree with me, not much for tourists outside Siem Reap

[@Wouter_asia]

Granny....aka KAREN

[@andrejka_talking_out_loud]

Chai, I am troubled how you made it sound like there were so many problems with Cambodia to the Cambodian guy who was born during the Khmer Rouge... why were you so provocative to that guy of all people? what possessed you to be so rude to the person from that country? Maybe because he was as successful and well travelled or more so than you?? You did not ask such questions stacking so much negativity to the white travelers you talked with nor do you do that to other videos of yours I watch... were you being mean? Next time you speak to a person in their own country for content for a video, be respectful instead of a passive aggressive or thoughtless reporter even if you are trying to get the ugly underbelly. I know you are trying to encourage people to visit, yet traumatizing Cambodians today is not worth it. You made that nice guy made and filmed it.. bad form Chai.

[@Chai_Travel]

He is a fellow conte creator on KZbin and he was aware of my channel when we started this chat. We have contact on instagram and if the starts line up we will work together to try to work on building a better Cambodian. I think you are misinterpreting my movement and this video

[@peena5408]

That last Cambodian guy is just a good example of "When shit happens to the tourist in MY country, just blame them, not us" XD. That's just a typical stereotype of an irresponsible person. That's one of the reasons why people will not come back to the country. Embarrassing...

[@bioniccambo4023]

That old lady did not find one good thing about Cambodia, not even Angkor Wat. Definitely went to Cambodia with a biased attitude to make sure she doesn’t enjoy Cambodia at all. She can now go back to her son in Vietnam and tell him and his family the horror stories of her experiences in Cambodia and that they were right to warn her not to go.

[@Michael-l6d8i]

I don't like city at all

[@samrachchan7995]

You just asking one most popular influencer in Cambodia @reanthort 😂

[@Chai_Travel]

I did 😁 such a champ 🏆