I would never let where I live dictate the type of instruments I own.
In so many threads here, there is a theme about how other people don't respect the `ukulele as a musical instrument. Heck, one person here calls others foul names because we respect the instrument and its correct pronunciation (sorry, tangent). But rt is right, doesn't matter where you live, you make due. Yes, there are some limiting factors in geography, but music shouldn't be one of them, especially in the US, save for certain places in AK.
So far, there's mention of Koa, how it looks, how it sounds when Aldrine plays, how much it costs, and is it worth it?
Two things not mentioned - one tangible, and one spiritual.
Tangible - How does it play? There are many experienced players here, and many new ones, so this is to expand the scope of the new ones. Bottom line - you can have the best sounding instrument, but can YOU play it. My friend played a 12 fret Martin Tenor, and needed a replacement. His custom Mahogany 14 fret Tenor ended up with a wider, thinner, flatter neck profile. Sounds minute, but both are completely different instruments in the way that he plays them. Another friend, has an extremely wide fretboard, thicker neck, on a cutaway with 22 frets. The first friend played it, and likes the sound, but not the playability. The owner of the instrument loves it (he's a guitar player and prefers more room on the board), and uses the 22nd fret. Yes, they are both professional musicians, and as one friend told me, "Any good musician should be able to pick up any instrument and play." I told him "A good musician shouldn't have to." He bought a Custom soon after.
Spiritual - How do you feel about the instrument? This is not for the new players, but the experienced ones who have at least taken the time to meet their builders. This one, I cannot explain, but suffice to say that if you have an instrument, but want another one, a particular one, you'll always wonder what if? This can manifest itself as a mental block in allowing growth.
Get the instrument that will prevent you from looking elsewhere and wondering "What if?"
Just my $.02 - Aaron