Reach out:

When word got out among my family and friends in Detroit, Michigan, that I was contemplating moving to Cambodia, the responses were interesting: “Gosh.” “That’s huge!” “Are you sure that’s wise?” “You’re joking!” “Where is it?” Overwhelmingly, though, one response stood out: “Why Cambodia?”

Cambodia isn’t an obvious destination for Americans considering a move abroad, for reasons that are entirely understandable. Over the past two centuries, the country has endured foreign occupation, border disputes, outright war, genocide, famine and profound social upheaval.

My decision to move to Cambodia almost three months ago was based on four key factors:

1. an interest in the country’s French colonial past, driven by my own French-American heritage;
2. a family story connected to the Vietnam War era that never had a proper ending;
3. the lower cost of living; and
4. a long-held desire to teach English in a foreign country.                                                                                         

In the sections that follow, I’ll look at each of those four factors in turn, starting with the French connection that first drew my attention to Cambodia. In addition, I will share my first impressions of Cambodian people and what I have learned since moving to Cambodia.

My French Connection to Cambodia

I grew up in a French-speaking household in the United States. As a result, I still instinctively use the word Cambodge, the French name for Cambodia. Some people find this amusing. Others assume it’s an error of some kind. For me, though, Cambodge is simply the name I grew up hearing.

More than 70 years after independence, French influence can still be seen in aspects of Cambodia’s architecture, food, language and everyday life.

True, travelling to France itself would have been the most obvious choice for someone like me who wanted to explore their French connection. Cambodia, though, offered something different: an opportunity to experience part of that shared French history while also immersing myself in a culture that is uniquely Khmer. For me, that was hard to knock back.

A Family Story That Never Had a Proper Ending

The second reason that moving to Cambodia made perfect sense to me is even more personal than exploring the shared French connection.

Growing up in Detroit, I couldn’t help but notice that whenever Vietnam, Cambodia or Laos appeared on television, my father would quietly turn his attention to something else. On occasions, he would simply get up and leave the room. While I noticed it, I never gave it much thought.

At my father’s funeral, I learned for the first time that he had an older brother named Jacques who was drafted to serve in the US military in Vietnam, literally two months after obtaining American citizenship. The story goes that Jacques disappeared somewhere in Cambodia’s Svay Rieng Province, close to the Vietnamese border, in March 1970. Jacques was presumed dead, but details surrounding his disappearance remained unclear.

Looking back, my dad’s reaction whenever Vietnam, Cambodia or Laos appeared on television made sense. It was a reminder of Jacques, his older brother. It was also a way of dealing with grief.

I cannot undo the past, and I don’t expect to solve a mystery that has remained unresolved for more than fifty years. What I can do while living in Cambodia is spend some time in Svay Rieng Province and search for whatever information may still exist. It might give surviving family members some measure of closure, something my father never found in his lifetime. It might not. Either way, it’s important to me.

The Cost of Living in Cambodia Is Appealing

It’s fair to say that exploring a shared French connection and searching for information about my Uncle Jacques were emotional reasons behind my decision to move to Cambodia. Some family and friends in Detroit might be shocked to learn that emotion had any influence whatsoever on my decision-making. They’ll be comforted to know that the prospect of enjoying a much lower cost of living also weighed heavily on my mind as I contemplated the move.

Like many people in the United States, I found myself in mundane jobs in Detroit, working long hours just to pay the bills. There was never much money left over each fortnight to actually live my best life — travel, eat out occasionally, indulge my passion for live music and suchlike. I genuinely felt like a mouse on one of those wheels that just keeps spinning, with no destination in sight.

My research on Google, YouTube and similar platforms before departing the United States painted a rosy picture of quality of life and affordability in Cambodia. The reality on the ground in Phnom Penh has been even better than I expected, driven in part by the favorable balance between what foreign English teachers can typically earn and everyday living expenses.

After arriving in Phnom Penh, I rented a modest one-room apartment downtown on Street 19. The rent is US$275 per month, with utilities adding another US$50 or so.

When accommodation is added to my everyday expenses, I can comfortably live in Phnom Penh for under US$700 a month without cutting corners and still save around 30% of my income. In contrast, I wasn’t saving a dime in America — and had to shovel snow for the better part of six months each year just to get out of my driveway.

Making the Move into ESL Teaching

Before moving to Cambodia, I knew I would need some form of income if I intended to stay for an extended period. Teaching English seemed like the obvious choice.

My research indicated that teaching opportunities were plentiful for foreigners with a good command of English, the right demeanor and valid certification. I was confident my English skills and personal demeanor would be viewed favorably, but the certification requirement was a glaring shortfall.

Fortunately, I found AVSE-TESOL not far from my downtown apartment, completed their in-class government-regulated TESOL program over four weeks, and landed a decent ESL teaching job within two weeks of finishing the course.

The starting salary of US$1,250 per month gave me immediate financial stability, structure and an opportunity to contribute positively to the local community. Importantly, I feel good about myself and the world around me. I didn’t feel that in Detroit.

First Impressions of Cambodian People

Ask me what stands out about life in Cambodia, and you might expect I’d mention Angkor Wat, the food, affordable living, the tropical climate or rewarding work. All of those things certainly deserve a mention, but overwhelmingly, the answer is the generosity of local people.

Cambodians smile a lot. It almost feels like an ingrained part of daily life. They’re patient. They go out of their way to help. Whether I’m interacting with neighbors, colleagues, students, market vendors or complete strangers, I have only encountered genuine kindness. 

That’s not to say Cambodia is perfect or some kind of utopia. It’s not — far from it.

The country can be confronting at times: the heat, the dust, the visible poverty, the legacy of genocide, famine and landmines, and the rapid spread of foreign-backed casinos. For some visitors and would-be expats, those realities can be difficult to look past.

Even so, I’d argue that the generosity of local people, coupled with the opportunity to lead a happy and fulfilling life, outweighs the country’s shortcomings.

What I’ve Learned Since Moving to Cambodia

While I have only been in Cambodia for a relatively short period, what I’ve learned already could fill a book, with each chapter revealing another layer of the country and the people who live here. Allow me to shine a light on three lessons that may be especially relevant to the people most likely to read this post.

First, to a large extent, we control our own destiny. I was well and truly over what the United States was dishing up for me personally. So I threw caution to the wind and moved almost 9,000 miles from the place I had called home my entire life.

I’m nothing special. I don’t have a college degree. I’m a bit rough around the edges, with a trades background. In other words, I’m an average Joe. If I can take practical steps towards achieving a better quality of life, then so can you. From personal experience, putting one foot in front of the other is a great way to start the journey.

Second, working as a foreign ESL teacher in Cambodia has got to be right up there with the most rewarding jobs on planet Earth. The pay is exceptionally good when compared with the cost of living. Unlike in many Western countries, teachers are genuinely respected in Cambodia, occupying a position of high status within Cambodian culture.

The students are highly motivated, the work hours are sensible, and you get to see tangible results from your efforts in a relatively short period of time. All of those factors have a positive influence on how foreign ESL teachers in Cambodia see themselves and the world around them.

Third, there’s a lot that Western culture could learn from Eastern culture. For example, Cambodia has shown me that life does not always need to be rushed, measured, judged or overcomplicated. There is real value in patience, humility, family, community and remembering that the sun will come up tomorrow, whatever happens.

Cambodia has a way of slowing you down. There are constant subtle reminders that people matter more than schedules, relationships matter more than transactions, happiness comes from within, and a peaceful life is something to be treasured.

Conclusion: Was Moving to Cambodia the Right Decision?

Nobody knows what’s around the corner, and the reality is that I’ve only been on the ground in Phnom Penh for a few months. That said, if I were asked today, “Was moving to Cambodia the right decision?”, the answer would be a resounding yes.

The reasons for that resounding yes are both practical and deeply personal. I’m reconnecting with my French heritage every time I take a walk through the streets of Phnom Penh. I love the more affordable lifestyle. Working as an ESL teacher in Cambodia allows me to fulfil my long-held dream of teaching English in a foreign country. During the upcoming school holidays, I’ll travel to Svay Rieng Province to begin my search for information about Jacques, my father’s brother, who disappeared during the Vietnam War years. All of those factors played a role in my decision to move to Cambodia.

Beyond all of the above, it’s the generosity, patience and warmth of local people that have made Cambodia feel like home. For that reason alone, moving here was the right decision. I’m exactly where I need to be.

About the writer: Antoine Le Bec has French-American heritage. He travelled to Cambodia in early 2026, partly to explore his French roots, seek closure on a family tragedy dating back to the 1970s, enjoy a lower cost of living and teach English in Phnom Penh. Antoine’s blog post, Moving to Cambodia: I Left America for a New Life in Phnom Penh, is heartfelt, personal and easy to read. Enjoy!

If you’re considering teaching English in Cambodia, chances are you’ve been doing plenty of research. During that process, you may have come across references to Cambodge, Cambodia, the Khmer Empire and the Khmer Republic. At first glance, the different names can be confusing. Do they all refer to the same place?

The answer is yes — but with an important caveat.

While Cambodge, Cambodia, the Khmer Empire and the Khmer Republic all relate to the same broad geographical region, they represent very different periods in the country’s history. Each name reflects a distinct era shaped by different political systems, cultural influences and historical events.

Understanding these differences will not only help you make sense of Cambodia’s past but also provide valuable context whether you’re considering teaching English in Cambodia, retiring there or simply planning a visit.

The Khmer Empire: Where the Story Begins

Whether you’re more familiar with the names Cambodge, Cambodia or the Khmer Republic, the origins of the modern Cambodian nation can be traced back to the Khmer Empire.

From the 9th to the 15th centuries, the Khmer Empire sprawled across large parts of Southeast Asia, including areas that now form Cambodia, Thailand, Laos and Vietnam. It was one of the most powerful civilisations in the region and left behind a legacy that continues to shape Cambodian identity today.

The Khmer Empire is remembered for far more than territorial expansion. Historians regularly point to its advanced irrigation systems, sophisticated administration and extraordinary architectural achievements. The most famous example is Angkor Wat, which remains one of the world’s most impressive religious monuments and Cambodia’s most recognisable national symbol.

Like most great empires the world has known, the Khmer Empire eventually declined. Political instability, conflict with neighbouring kingdoms and changing trade patterns all contributed to its weakening during the 15th century. Ultimately, the Khmer Emire disappeared, but its culture did not.

The Khmer language, customs, traditions and religious practices endured and continued to influence subsequent generations. Modern Cambodia still draws heavily upon the foundations established during the Khmer Empire, making this remarkable civilisation far more than simply a chapter in a history book.

Cambodge: Cambodia Under French Colonial Rule

The next major chapter in Cambodia’s story began in 1863 when the country became a French protectorate. Together with Vietnam and Laos, Cambodia formed part of French Indochina. During this period, French speakers referred to the country as Cambodge, a name that remains widely used throughout the French-speaking world today.

French rule lasted until 1953 and left an indelible mark on Cambodia. Its influence can still be seen in administrative systems, architecture, education and even food culture.

If you do end up teaching English in Cambodia, make sure you find the time to visit Phnom Penh’s Central Market and the Old Post Office. You would be hard-pressed to find better examples of French colonial architecture anywhere in the region. The historic Raffles Hotel building is another French masterpiece well worth seeing.

Despite the French leaving more than seventy years ago, the name Cambodge remains common among French speakers. For many visitors, this is often their first introduction to the historical connection between Cambodge and modern-day Cambodia.

Cambodia Becomes an Independent Nation

After almost a century of French colonial rule, Cambodia regained its independence in 1953 under King Norodom Sihanouk. From this point onward, the name Cambodia became the most widely used English-language reference to the country, while Kampuchea remained the Khmer-language equivalent.

Independence ushered in a period of nation-building and optimism. However, Cambodia’s location in the heart of Southeast Asia meant it could not completely escape the geopolitical tensions that were sweeping through the region during the Cold War. Events unfolding in neighbouring Vietnam and Laos would soon have a profound impact on Cambodia’s future.

The Khmer Republic: A Tumultuous Chapter

Between 1970 and 1975, following a coup led by General Lon Nol, the Kingdom of Cambodia was transformed into the Khmer Republic. This occurred during one of the most politically volatile periods of the twentieth century. The Cold War was reshaping international politics, while conflict raged in neighbouring Vietnam and Laos. Around the world, governments increasingly aligned themselves with one of the competing superpowers.

The Lon Nol Government adopted a strongly anti-communist position and began receiving substantial military and economic support from the United States. Many Cambodians, particularly those living in regional and rural areas, did not share the political views of General Lon Nol and his government. Unsurprisingly, civil war followed.

The Khmer Republic lasted only five years. In April 1975, the communist Khmer Rouge movement, led by Pol Pot, entered Phnom Penh and overthrew the Lon Nol Government. What followed was not only a tragedy in Cambodian history but one of the darkest chapters in modern human history.

The Khmer Rouge Period and Cambodia’s Recovery

After seizing power in 1975, the Khmer Rouge attempted to radically transform Cambodian society. The consequences were catastrophic. It is estimated that more than two million Cambodian people died during the Khmer Rouge period through starvation, disease, forced labour, torture and execution. Families were separated, entire communities were dismantled and countless lives were destroyed.

The Khmer Rouge regime was eventually overthrown by Vietnamese forces in 1979. The years that followed were difficult as Cambodia sought to rebuild its institutions, infrastructure and economy. Gradually, stability returned. The Kingdom of Cambodia was restored and, despite inevitable challenges, the country has enjoyed relative political stability for more than four decades.

With a younger generation now playing an increasingly prominent role in public life, many Cambodians look towards the future with a sense of optimism.

Cambodia Today: Old and New Side by Side

How would I describe the Cambodia that I know today after more than a decade living here? It is a country where the old sits comfortably alongside the new.

Phnom Penh has evolved into a hub of economic activity and cultural revival. Modern apartment towers, office buildings and shopping centres stand alongside traditional markets, Buddhist temples and colonial-era landmarks. The contrast somehow works.

Siem Reap, home to the world-famous Angkor Wat temple complex, successfully blends a substantial tourism industry with people simply going about their everyday lives. It remains one of Southeast Asia’s most fascinating destinations.

Sihanoukville presents a very different story. Over the past two decades, it has transformed from a relaxed coastal town into a city dominated by large-scale development and casinos. Some see this as progress. Others are less convinced. As the old saying goes, each to their own.

Beyond the major cities, rural Cambodia has also undergone significant change. New roads, bridges, schools and healthcare facilities have improved living standards across many parts of the country. Opportunities that were once unavailable to many Cambodians are becoming increasingly accessible.

Despite this rapid development, Cambodia remains deeply connected to its cultural heritage. Ancient traditions, Buddhist practices and family values continue to play an important role in daily life. The way local people embrace modernisation while preserving their cultural identity is genuinely impressive.

Today, Cambodia is a vibrant and diverse country with a growing economy and a cultural heritage that reflects the resilience of its people.

Conclusion

The terms Cambodge, Cambodia, the Khmer Empire and the Khmer Republic are all connected to the same broad geographical region, but they represent very different periods in the country’s history.

The Khmer Empire laid the cultural and historical foundations of modern Cambodia. The French colonial era introduced the name Cambodge, which remains in use among French speakers today. The Khmer Republic marked a brief but turbulent chapter during the Cold War, while modern Cambodia has emerged as a rapidly developing nation that remains deeply connected to its Khmer heritage.

Understanding these historical distinctions helps explain why different names continue to appear in discussions about Cambodia and provides valuable context for anyone considering travelling, living or teaching English in this fascinating country.

About the writer: Rob Winton completed the Australian Government-regulated TESOL program at AVSE in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, fourteen years ago. For the past decade, Rob has worked as an ESL teacher in Phnom Penh while pursuing his passion for local history, with a particular interest in Cambodia’s Khmer Empire, French colonial, Khmer Republic and Khmer Rouge periods.

For aspiring expatriates (expats) who dream of immersing themselves in new cultures while earning a decent living, teaching English overseas has long been a favoured way to turn that ambition into reality. In recent years, Cambodia has emerged as a destination of choice for expats seeking an English teaching adventure in Southeast Asia. Why? From my first-hand experience, Cambodia’s popularity as an ESL teaching destination is driven by an insatiable demand for English language skills among the local population, genuine employment opportunities for those who can teach the language, low living costs, the warmth of the Cambodian people and an enticing expat lifestyle. Succinctly, teaching English to Cambodian students delivers a practical pathway to earn, explore, contribute and experience life in one of Southeast Asia’s most fascinating countries.

How Much Do Expat Teachers Get Paid?

Expat English as a Second Language (ESL) teachers in Cambodia typically work around 25 classroom hours a week — primarily Monday to Friday during daytime hours — and earn between US $800.00 and US $1,200.00 per month. I know of instances where teachers have secured salaries above US $1,200.00 monthly, but salaries within the range outlined above are more common.

Here are two things you can do to improve your chances of securing a salary closer to the higher end of the typical range.

First: Ensure your documentation is in order — a government-regulated TESOL qualification like the one offered by AVSE-TESOL in Phnom Penh, a criminal record check from your home country that is no more than six months old, and a sharp one-page CV that includes a professional-looking head-and-shoulders photograph. While many schools in Cambodia prefer expat teachers who hold a degree, a degree is not a mandatory requirement for securing a teaching-related work permit and related visa in Cambodia.

Second: Be respectful and prepare thoroughly before the interview. Listen carefully, answer questions politely and present yourself professionally. Remember that you are a visitor in Cambodia, and schools will expect you to show cultural awareness, humility and respect for local ways of doing things. The interview process is not the time to impose Western expectations or arrive with an inflated sense of entitlement. A positive attitude, modesty and genuine enthusiasm for working with Cambodian students can leave a strong impression.

Low Cost of Living for Foreign Teachers in Cambodia

To reach an informed view on whether teaching English to Cambodian students pays well from a foreign teacher’s perspective, local cost-of-living factors need to be considered. It’s fair to say that, on almost any measure, the cost of living in Cambodia is a fraction of what many Westerners experience in their home countries. While you may not earn as much as you could in your home country, Cambodia’s staggeringly low cost of living can still make working as a foreign teacher financially attractive.

In many Western countries, housing costs are exorbitant. In Cambodia, however, accommodation is comparatively inexpensive. For example, in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap — where many teaching jobs are located — you can generally find a furnished and comfortable apartment in a desirable area for approximately US $250.00 to US $350.00 per month.

You’ll also be pleased to know that food and drink in Cambodia are inexpensive by Western standards. With a daily food budget of around US $10.00 to US $12.00, you can eat very well and still enjoy the occasional beer or wine. If you’re comfortable eating Khmer street food, it can actually be cheaper to eat out in Cambodia than to cook at home.

Transportation is another major cost factor, and ESL teachers in Cambodia generally pay a fraction of what they might spend running a car or using public transport in their home country. Tuk-tuks are the preferred public transport option in Cambodia and, at roughly US $1.00 per kilometre, they’re relatively affordable. Those planning to teach English to Cambodian students for an extended period — say six to twelve months or longer — may prefer to rent a motorbike for approximately US $60.00 a month and enjoy the freedom that comes with it.

Lifestyle Benefits – Teaching English to Cambodian Students

The favourable salary-to-cost-of-living ratio enjoyed by foreign English teachers in Cambodia would mean far less without the appealing lifestyle that comes with the experience.

Many foreign teachers in Cambodia work less and save more than they would in their home country. When you add the relaxed pace of life, the generous hospitality of the local population and the country’s cultural richness, it’s easy to see why Cambodia has become such a popular destination for both aspiring and seasoned ESL educators.

Outside the classroom, Cambodia offers something for everyone. If you enjoy café culture, Phnom Penh and Siem Reap are filled with trendy coffee shops, riverside restaurants, rooftop bars and lively markets that attract both expats and local people. History buffs can immerse themselves in everything from the awe-inspiring temples of Angkor Wat to the more recent and confronting history linked to foreign occupation, civil conflict and the Khmer Rouge era.

The arts and cultural scene in Cambodia is vibrant. Traditional dance, museums, art galleries, live music venues and cultural festivals are common features of life in towns and cities across the country. Buddhism also plays a visible role in everyday life, contributing to Cambodia’s distinctive atmosphere through stunning pagodas, spiritual traditions and classic Khmer architecture. If fitness is your thing, you’ll be spoilt for choice with cheap, welcoming gyms, riverside boardwalks and open spaces.

Importantly, Cambodia is relatively easy to navigate, making weekend travel and exploration both affordable and accessible for foreign teachers. Being centrally located in Southeast Asia also means travel to neighbouring countries — Vietnam, Thailand, Laos and beyond — is cheap and quick. 

Get your TESOL Certificate at AVSE-TESOL

Allow me the opportunity for a shameless plug.

Earlier in this article, I mentioned that government-regulated TESOL, TEFL or CELTA certification is the core qualification you’ll need to work as a paid English teacher in Cambodia. Whether you’re a foreigner or a Cambodian citizen, you can obtain TESOL certification through AVSE-TESOL in Phnom Penh. Delivered in-class or online, TESOL certification from AVSE-TESOL is accredited by the Australian Government and genuinely internationally recognised.

Conclusion

Foreign ESL teachers in Cambodia typically earn between US $800.00 and US $1,200.00 a month, markedly less than teachers in Western countries, but high by local standards.  When a high salary by local standards is combined with Cambodia’s low cost of living and attractive lifestyle, it’s easy to see why the country has gained traction as a premier ESL teaching destination.

With Australian Government-regulated TESOL certification from AVSE-TESOL, you could be teaching English to Cambodian students in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Battambang or elsewhere in the country sooner than you think.

About the writer: Bridgette Mackay is from Wellington, New Zealand. She has taught English in Phnom Penh since July 2022. Bridgette completed the Australian Government accredited TESOL course at AVSE in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, but chose Cambodia as her teaching destination. Why? According to Bridgette, it’s all about the local people.     

Upon arrival in Cambodia, foreign English as a Second Language (ESL) teachers have many things to consider and organise: finding a place to live, opening a bank account, making friends, settling into a new job, where to get a great coffee, and a lot more. Navigating ‘language barriers’ on arrival (and after that) can be challenging in Cambodia, which has its own alphabet. Learning some essential words and phrases in the Cambodian language (also known as Khmer) will ease your transition into the Khmer culture and give you some brownie points with the locals. From my personal experience, local people love to see foreigners having a go with the Cambodian language. It’s an engaging talking point in its own right.

In this article, I’ll touch on how to read and say 104 words and phrases in Cambodian. Despite its shortcomings, ‘Google Translate’ is a good place to practice pronouncing Khmer words (for free). You can log in to ‘Google Translate’ via the following link: https://translate.google.com.au/?sl=auto&tl=km&op=translate

1: Basic Greetings and Manners

These everyday phrases in the Cambodian language are essential for greeting and interacting with people politely:

1. Hello – សួស្តី (suosdei)
2. Goodbye – លាហើយ (leahaey)
3. Thank you – អរគុណ (awkun)
4. Yes – បាទ/ចាស (bat/cha)
5. No – ទេ (te)
6. Please – សូម (som)
7. Sorry – សុំទោស (somtoh)

2: Common Statements and Questions

Knowing a few basic statements and questions in the Cambodian language will help you engage with local people. Check out the following:

1. How are you? – អ្នកសុខសប្បាយទេ? (neak sok sabay te?)
2. What is your name? – អ្នកឈ្មោះអ្វី? (neak chmuah avei?)
3. My name is… – ខ្ញុំឈ្មោះ… (khnhom chmuah…)
4. Do you speak English? – អ្នកនិយាយភាសាអង់គ្លេសបានទេ? (neak niyeay pheasa angkles ban te?)
5. I don’t understand – ខ្ញុំមិនយល់ទេ (khnhom min yul te)
6. Where is…? – ឯណា…? (ae na…?)

3: Numbers

If you learn how to count to ten in the Cambodian language, with practice, you’ll know how to count to one million and beyond quicker than you think. How is that so? The numbers basically repeat themselves. For example, one in Khmer is ‘muoy’, eleven in Khmer is ‘dbmuoy’, two in Khmer is ‘pir’, twelve in Khmer is ‘dbpir’, three in Khmer is ‘bei’, thirteen in Khmer is ‘db bei’. Knowing basic numbers in the Cambodian language will make your life so much easier in everyday situations, including buying a product or service, asking and answering questions about age, discussing distance, weights, measures, and more.  

1. One – មួយ (muoy)
2. Two – ពីរ (pii)
3. Three – បី (bei)
4. Four – បួន (buon)
5. Five – ប្រាំ (pram)
6. Six – ប្រាំមួយ (pram muoy)
7. Seven – ប្រាំពីរ (pram pi)
8. Eight – ប្រាំបី (pram bei)
9. Nine – ប្រាំបួន (pram buon)
10. Ten – ដប់ (dop)

4: Days of the Week

When you understand how to read and express the days of the week in the Cambodian language, you will be able to plan and organise your schedule with relative ease:

1. Monday – ថ្ងៃច័ន្ទ (thngay chan)
2. Tuesday – ថ្ងៃអង្គារ (thngay angkea)
3. Wednesday – ថ្ងៃពុធ (thngay put)
4. Thursday – ថ្ងៃព្រហស្បតិ៍ (thngay prohas)
5. Friday – ថ្ងៃសុក្រ (thngay sok)
6. Saturday – ថ្ងៃសៅរ៍ (thngay sao)
7. Sunday – ថ្ងៃអាទិត្យ (thngay atit)

5: Food and Dining

Dining out in Cambodia is very affordable. This means you will most likely be eating out at least once a day – here are some useful words and phrases in the Cambodian language to assist you:

1. Food – ម្ហូប (mhoop)
2. Water – ទឹក (teuk)
3. Rice – ស្រូវ (srov)
4. Chicken – សាច់មាន់ (sach moan)
5. Fish – ត្រី (trey)
6. Vegetables – បន្លែ (banlae)
7. Fruit – ផ្លែឈើ (phlae chheu)
8. Coffee – កាហ្វេ (ka-fe)
9. Tea – តែ (te)
10. Beer – ស្រាបៀរ (sra-bia)

6: Travel and Directions

Getting around in Cambodia is relatively cheap and easy for expats – make it even easier with these useful words in Khmer:

1. Taxi – តាក់ស៊ី (tak-si)
2. Bus – ឡានក្រុង (lan krong)
3. Train – រទេះភ្លើង (roteh phlerng)
4. Airport – អាកាសយានដ្ឋាន (akasayandthan)
5. Hotel – សណ្ឋាគារ (sonthakia)
6. Restaurant – ភោជនីយដ្ឋាន (phochaniyatharn)
7. Left – ឆ្វេង (chhveng)
8. Right – ស្ដាំ (sdam)
9. Straight – ទៅមុខ (tov mok)
10. Near – ជិត (chet)

7: Money Matters

Whether you’re shopping at the mall or the local marketplace, the following words in the Cambodian language will be very handy:

1. How much? – តើមានតម្លៃប៉ុន្មាន? (tae mean damlay ponman?)
2. Expensive – ថ្លៃ (thlay)
3. Cheap – ថោក (thaok)
4. Money – លុយ (luy)
5. Market – ផ្សារ (psa)
6. Shop – ហាង (hang)
7. Buy – ទិញ (teinh)
8. Sell – លក់ (luak)
9. Discount – បញ្ចុះតម្លៃ (banchoh damlay)

8: Emergencies

Here are some words in Khmer for handling emergencies, that hopefully you’ll never have to use:

1. Doctor – វេជ្ជបណ្ឌិត (vechabondet)
2. Hospital – មន្ទីរពេទ្យ (montipet)
3. Pharmacy – ហ្វាម៉ាស៊ី (phama-si)
4. Help! – ជួយផង! (chuoy pong!)
5. Danger – គ្រោះថ្នាក់ (kruoh thnak)
6. Fire – ភ្លើង (phlerng)
7. Police – ប៉ូលីស (polis)
8. Ambulance – ឡានសង្គ្រោះបន្ទាន់ (lan songkruah bontan)

9: Everyday Activities and Hobbies

Everyone loves ‘small talk’. It’s a great way to get to know people. Here are some valuable words in the Cambodian language to get a bit of ‘small talk’ happening with a local person:

1. Eat – ញុំា (nham)
2. Drink – ផឹក (phoek)
3. Sleep – គេង (keng)
4. Read – អាន (an)
5. Write – សរសេរ (sorsae)
6. Work – ធ្វើការ (thveu ka)
7. Play – លេង (leng)
8. Walk – ដើរ (daer)
9. Run – រត់ (rot)

10: Household Objects

Here are some words in the Cambodian language for household objects that you’ll find useful:

1. House – ផ្ទះ (phtes)
2. Car – ឡាន (lan)
3. Bicycle – កង់ (kong)
4. Phone – ទូរស័ព្ទ (toursap)
5. Computer – កុំព្យូទ័រ (kompiutear)
6. Book – សៀវភៅ (sievphov)
7. Table – តុ (toh)
8. Chair – កៅអី (kaoei)
9. Window – បង្អួច (bang-uoch)
10. Door – ទ្វារ (tvear)

11: The Natural World

Expats who love the great outdoors will undoubtedly thrive in Cambodia. Here are some useful phrases in Khmer to help you talk about your adventures:

1. Sun – ព្រះអាទិត្យ (preah atit)
2. Moon – ព្រះច័ន្ទ (preah chan)
3. Star – ផ្កាយ (phkay)
4. Rain – ភ្លៀង (phleung)
5. Tree – ដើមឈើ (daem chheu)
6. Flower – ផ្កា (phka)
7. River – ទន្លេ (tonle)
8. Mountain – ភ្នំ (phnom)
9. Sea – សមុទ្រ (samot)
10. Island – កោះ (koh)

12: Relationships and Emotions

Here are some words in the Cambodian language that will help you engage with locals who are nearest and dearest:  

1. Friend – មិត្ត (met)
2. Family – គ្រួសារ (krousa)
3. Love – ស្រឡាញ់ (sralanh)
4. Happy – សប្បាយ (sabay)
5. Boyfriend – មិត្តប្រុស (mitt bros)
6. Girlfriend – មិត្តស្រី (mitt srei)
7. Husband – ប្តី (btei)
8. Wife – ប្រពន្ធ (brapon)

When Not to Use the Cambodian Language

Suppose you’ve signed up for the Australian Government-accredited TESOL programme at AVSE-TESOL in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Great choice! Shortly after your course concludes, you’ll be in a top job teaching English in Cambodia based on your English language knowledge and skills – and your valid ESL teaching credentials. In an ESL classroom, your role is to teach English to Cambodian students. The classroom is not a place for an ESL teacher to practice his (or her) Cambodian language skills. Why? There are two key reasons:

• The academic research is emphatic. ESL students best learn English in an English-speaking environment. Incorporating the local language into an ESL classroom is counterproductive and inhibits progress.

• It’s important to remember why you are in the classroom. In addition, it’s important to remember why fee-paying customers come to your class. Are you there to practice your Khmer skills? Of course not. Are your students there to help you build Cambodian language skills? No, they aren’t. It’s all about teaching and learning English – in English.

Conclusion

As an ESL teacher in Cambodia, learning a few words and everyday phrases in the local language will help you enormously as you do everyday tasks. Like everything in life, there’s a time and a place. When you’re out and about, take every opportunity to use and build your Khmer skills. Conversely, an ESL classroom is not the place to practice your Khmer.

You will undoubtedly mispronounce and misuse words in the Cambodian language, just as your ESL students make mistakes. When this occurs, you will quickly see that it doesn’t matter. Cambodian folks will be ‘over the moon’ that you’re having a go with their language in their country. Your efforts will command a lot of respect.

About the writer: Mark Rockham did the Australian Government accredited TESOL course in Phnom Penh at AVSE in 2017. He has been teaching English in Cambodia for the past 7 years, including an online teaching position throughout the pandemic.  

Cambodia is a land of natural beauty, awe-inspiring temples, and a vibrant culture. Local people are understandably proud of their country, and nowadays, tourists and expats alike love the place—it hasn’t always been like that. The expat community in Cambodia is flourishing, in part because one of the fastest-growing industries in the country is English as a Second Language (ESL) teaching and learning. The demand for both foreign and Cambodian English teachers is huge.

Why has the demand for foreign and Cambodian English teachers gone through the roof? It’s largely due to Cambodia’s rapidly developing economy, the drive towards self-sufficiency, and opening the doors to the outside world after years of unrest and hardship. Most importantly, Cambodian citizens acknowledge English proficiency as a valuable skill that provides a pathway to a better future. Country-wide, Cambodian citizens have bought into the idea that English, the ‘international language’, is paramount.

For a foreigner, teaching in Cambodia is the perfect way to establish a life for themselves in this dynamic country. From a local perspective, Cambodian English teachers are held in high esteem by compatriots and enjoy work conditions that are typically better than what’s available in the country’s mainstay industries.

In this article, we’ll go into a little more detail about Cambodia’s rapid development and how this has resulted in a callout for both foreign and Cambodian English teachers. Later, we will explain the benefits of acquiring a reputable, internationally recognized TESOL certificate, a core qualification for working as an English teacher, and how this will set you up for success in your career in Cambodia and beyond.

Economic growth

Cambodia’s economy continues to grow at an astounding rate. Here’s why this is occurring.

Direct investment by the Cambodian Government over the past ten to fifteen years has seen an improvement in road networks, close to a total rebuild of the Phnom Penh International Airport, and a raft of other eye-catching infrastructure projects. Moreover, foreign direct investment from countries like China, South Korea, Japan, and Australia has modernized Cambodia’s industrial sector.

Cambodia’s strategic location in Southeast Asia makes the country an ideal regional trade hub. By continuing to improve its infrastructure and invigorate economic policies, Cambodia is well-positioned for ongoing growth in the coming years. The need for English proficiency across countless sectors of the Cambodian economy is a direct byproduct of economic development. For example, in 2023, over 5 million tourists from countries near and far visited Cambodia, significantly boosting the country’s GDP and creating lucrative job opportunities. As international tourists continue to make a beeline for the best of what Cambodia has to offer—Angkor Wat, stunning pagodas, architectural marvels from the French colonial era, and much more—the demand for English proficiency in the tourism sector will only increase, feeding the demand for foreign and Cambodian English teachers.

Rising demand for English teaching in Cambodia

As previously mentioned, the demand for English teaching and learning in Cambodia is substantial—so much so that the Cambodian government has publicly acknowledged its importance for fostering economic independence. Policies have recently been implemented to integrate English education into the national curriculum to equip emerging generations with English proficiency.

This means that English teaching in Cambodia is an attractive proposition for suitably qualified foreigners – and local people – a career path with tangible benefits all around. Foreign English teachers who decide to live and work in Cambodia experience a high quality of life, reaping the benefits of a low cost of living, a vibrant culture, and the opportunity to make a resounding impact on the lives of the students they work with. By training and providing employment opportunities for Cambodian English teachers, the country enriches its educational landscape and moves closer to self-sufficiency. 

Get your TESOL certificate at AVSE-TESOL

To embark on your career as an English teacher in Cambodia, some important prerequisites must be met.

While schools expect a foreign English teacher to hold a bachelor’s degree, it’s not a core requirement for a ‘Work Permit’. Schools also expect foreign English teachers to hold internationally accredited TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) certification. TESOL certification shows prospective employers that you are well-equipped with the skill set required to teach English to non-native English speakers. The core requirement for a local person to work as a Cambodian English teacher is a university degree in education or a degree in another discipline supported by internationally recognized TESOL certification at the level provided by AVSE TESOL in Phnom Penh. 

Whether you’re a foreigner or a Cambodian citizen, you can obtain TESOL certification from AVSE TESOL (Vietnam and Cambodia). TESOL certification from AVSE TESOL (delivered in both in-person and online modes) is accredited by the Australian Government and recognized internationally. Among other things, during the comprehensive training at AVSE TESOL, you’ll learn about essential teaching methodologies, classroom management, and cultural awareness required to teach English to non-native English speakers. Importantly, the TESOL program at AVSE TESOL also comes with hands-on employment support.

Conclusion

As the Cambodia economy continues to develop at a rapid rate, the demand for both foreign English teachers and Cambodian English teachers is guaranteed to rise. If you are aspiring to teach English in Cambodia, an internationally accredited TESOL certificate from AVSE TESOL will ensure that you are well-equipped with the knowledge and technical skills you need to succeed in your career.

About the author: Originally from the United States, Bill Brampton worked as a foreign English teacher in Phnom Penh from August 2022 to June 2024. During his 20 months living and working in Phnom Penh, Bill witnessed first-hand how economic development and related factors are behind the push for a much higher level of English proficiency in Cambodia – and consequently, great teaching jobs for foreign and Cambodian English teachers.