Google is really letting Verizon screw this up. First no Wallet, then Verizon apps on phone, and now that the LTE model is released, we find that the GSM model is cheaper to import than the Verizon LTE model is to buy without contract.

The GSM model also happens to be pentaband 3g, so it works with TMobile and AT&T in the US. I've been using mine on TMobile for 2 weeks now, bought for about $730 from Expansys.

And yes, it is awesome. Just make sure you unlock the bootloader immediately, so you dont have to wipe it later if you choose to unlock then.