| Early in February, the attack
transport APA-91 voyaged from Leyte to the southern Solomons to prepare
for the last major amphibious assault of the war, the invasion of Okinawa.
.....She
concluded her stay in the Solomons with a week of maneuvers and then departed
Guadalcanal on 15 March with elements of the 4th Marines and the 11th Construction
Battalion (Special) embarked.
Bob Hope visited here earlier in 1944.
The markings on the bow of
each ship below is Japanese. The Adair can be seen behind the left ship.
.....
STORIES
From: http://www.commerce.gov.sb/Tourism/Guadalcanal.htm
The south coast of Guadalcanal is known as the "weather coast". This is because the prevailing SE trades abut against the 2400m mountain range producing high rainfall (and producing a rain shadow over the dryer plains of North Gaudalcanal and Honiara). There is an easy coastal track from Marau in the east to Kuma in the central weather coast, as well as airfields at Avu Avu, Marau and Mbabanakira. It is possible to arrange guides in Kuma and other places for the difficult and strenuous hike over the dividing range to the Northern Plains, via the gold mine at Gold Ridge. The weather coast is also the home of the Moro Tribe; a tribe who have renounced Christianity and all modern ways, keeping determinedly to their "Kastom". No modern clothing is allowed. However, these people do accept responsible visitors if arranged with the local chiefs. Guadalcanal is the largest island in the Solomon Islands. It hosts the nation's Capitol, Honiara, and much of it's industry. Guadalcanal is a high, rugged island with mountains reaching up to 2400m, a challenge for adventurous bush walkers. In Honiara the visitor will find most of his or her needs as expected in a capital city, luxury hotels to backpacker accommodation, restaurants, bars, clubs and nightlife. there are diving schools and any kind of activity from WW2 tours, bush walks, sport fishing, dive boat cruises and more can be arranged. There are also a few luxury resorts in unique Solomon style, such as Tambea Holiday Beach Resort, Tavanipupu Island Resort, Vulelua Island Resort and Lelei Resort. Several tour operators including Solomon Sights and Sounds, Guadalcanal Travel Service and others. Contact the Visitors Bureau for details. |
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