After boating for years in a 31' sloop, we decided it was time to sell it and go for a land yacht, so we could see something more than water. We rented a 27' class C and traveled for a couple weeks, just to see if we could stand that much closeness. No problem. About a year of research then ensued, until we finally settled on a brand new 2004 Itasca 32' Sunrise (Winnebago). We still have her. With minimal maintenance issues, and only one major modification (a Banks system) she has held up and done everything we needed. I love her.
But WLToo's Parkinsons caused him to think it's too hard for him to drive L'Andante, and he doesn't want me to do all the driving (I don't mind). So we charged back into research. Wound up with a used 2014 F-350 (my first used vehicle of any kind), and a brand new Rockwood 33' 2906WS. Because it's a completely new model, there are warranty issues to be dealt with, and then we'll make modifications to suit us.
In comparing the Itasca (Winnebago Industries) and the Rockwood (Forest River Industries), my quality stamp of approval goes overwhelmingly to Winnebago. Steinholz is reasonably comfy, easy to tow, and has all the modern bells and whistles that L'Andante doesn't, but it's not my first love. Just for WLToo's sake, Steinholz is going to be the long distance RV. I'm keeping L'Andante for the short distance trips and for emergency evacuation (we live in a wildfire area).
Bottom line (my opinion, for what it's worth): a new or lightly used Winnebago product will give you the fewest headaches as you develop your RV experience.
