A language for 14 million people
The Khmer language is only spoken in Cambodia, by 14 million people. However at the very heart of the country, you will find communities who do not speak Khmer: if you go to the Mondulkiri province, in the north-east, the ethnic minorities there will speak Krom, and accents will vary depending on the region you travel to.
Each region has its own particular sound: they pronounce all the letters and role the 'r's. Certain words also have a guttural pronunciation, so it might be sometimes difficult for you to make yourself understood even if you have the correct spelling - the pronunciation is difficult!
Nevertheless, it is always much appreciated if you are able to express yourself, even if it is only with a few words, in the Khmer language, because the Cambodians as a people are very open and love to talk! This can also be very useful in certain situations during your trip to Cambodia, especially when you're negotiating a tuk-tuk price or haggling in the market!
