You're right there. He wanted to be cremated. He also didn't want to be on the money but they stuck his face on every note. The cult of HCM is central to the communist party's propaganda.
Oh yeah, and don't expect fun in the sun in late February. It'll most likely be cold and grey!
re. Halong Bay. The scenery's stunning but organised trips there are more often than not disappointing. Prices vary massively. I'd recommend going for one of the cheapest ones then you won't feel so...
Here it is:
Thngs to see: Mausoleum (if you want to see a dead person, this is the place to go), Ethnology museum, War museum, History museum, Revolutionary museum, Hoa Lo prison, Temple of Literature.
The best of the museums is probably the Ethnology. Especially good if you're heading up to...
I lived there for over 2 years. Back in the UK at the moment but planning on returning soon. I've been asked lots of times about things to do there so I'm sure I've got an old email full of tips somewhere. I'll find it and post shortly.