Cambodia

Overview

Cambodia has overcome a turbulent period in its history to emerge as one of the most fascinating destinations in Southeast Asia. From the stunning temples that are scattered all over the country to the bustling markets in the city of Phnom Penh it is a country where you will find something of interest for all. Angkor Wat is probably Cambodia's most famous landmark but in the complex you will find an amazing variety of stunning temples. In the North of Cambodia you can escape the tourists completely to see the isolated temples of Preah Vihear and Koh Ker.

The beaches of Cambodia are less developed than those of Southern Thailand but are no less as beautiful. Sihanoukville, the main beach area, is surrounded by a national park with wonderful opportunities for snorkling and walking.

History

Although Cambodia had a rich and powerful past under the Hindu state of Funan and the Kingdom of Angkor by the mid-19th century the country was on the verge of dissolution. After repeated requests for French assistance a protectorate was established in 1863.

By 1884 Cambodia was a virtual colony; soon after it was made part of the Indochina Union with Annam Tonkin Cochin-China and Laos. France continued to control the country even after the start of World War II through its Vichy government. In 1945 the Japanese dissolved the colonial administration and King Norodom Sihanouk declared an independent anti-colonial government under Prime Minister Son Ngoc Thanh in March 1945. This government was deposed by the Allies in October. Many of Son Ngoc Thanh's supporters escaped and continued to fight for independence as the Khmer Issarak. Although France recognized Cambodia as an autonomous kingdom within the French Union the drive for total independence continued resulting in a split between those who supported the political tactics of Sihanouk and those who supported the Khmer Issarak guerrilla movement.

In January 1953 Sihanouk named his father as regent and went into self-imposed exile refusing to return until Cambodia gained genuine independence. Full Independence Sihanouk's actions hastened the French government's July 4 1953 announcement of its readiness to perfect the independence and sovereignty of Cambodia Laos and Vietnam. Full independence came on November 9 1953 but the situation remained uncertain until a 1954 conference was held in Geneva to settle the French-Indochina war. All participants except...more