Why did RV Buddies name the Serrano 31V one of our “Best of Show” at the PRVCA in Hershey this year?”  Because it offers style, storage, floor plans and diesel fuel economy at an affordable price - a great combination in a nicely sized package!

At first glance, the Serrano has a very unique front cap – smooth, curved and aerodynamic with its attractive one-piece windshield. But glancing around the sides of the coach reveals that the curving theme continues. Yes, the side walls arch at the top of the roof-line as well. This is one wind-cutting coach!

RV Buddies looked at the 31V, one of two available layouts. Both coaches are 8' wide. If you're used to driving a wide-body, driving the narrower Serrano should be a breeze. The 31V has two slides while the 31Z has one large slide.

The full-body paint on the slick fiberglass continues the polished theme of the exterior. The three available color schemes are attractive and stylish. The European bus-style rear view mirrors further set the front end design apart. There's no other way to describe them than "really cool".

Beyond all the normal storage compartments, look closely at the rear quarters of either model. There are two large doors that reveal what is aptly called "Mega" storage. Accessible from both sides of the coach, there is more than enough room for every camping need – think grills, bicycles and other large items.

Underneath the coach lies a solid foundation in the Workhorse W20D chassis. Key components include disc brakes with ABS, the MaxxForce 7 V-8 diesel with 620 lb ft of torque, an Allison transmission, 50 degree wheel cut, Bilstein shocks and 19.5" tires and wheels.

Supplying power is a standard 6000 watt Cummins-Onan diesel generator with 50 amp shore service. Also of note are the heated and enclosed holding tanks.

Given the good looks and quality mechanicals, is it possible for the interior to live up to expectations? Stepping inside is not disappointing.

Both floor plans provide an upscale vinyl flooring which makes for practical camping, while the living, cab and rear bedroom are carpeted. Hopefully whatever dirt gets tracked in will have fallen away before settling onto carpeting. Although the 31V is just shy of 33', the interior feels much larger.

Entering amidships, the spacious feel is amazing. With the shorter exterior height, 80" ceilings don't seem possible. By the way, they are padded vinyl with a ducted air conditioning system.

The interior is well appointed. The cabinetry carries the European curve theme throughout in a very tasteful manner. Fabrics and colors are muted and promise not to go out of style the moment next year's models are introduced. The wood is available in maple or optional cherry finishes.

The coach radiates fore and aft from a central kitchen – the hub of most family environments.  Counters are solid surface with a large sink and glass-covered two burner gas range. A convection/microwave resides above with range hood built in. A simple tile treatment breaks up the solid surface from the wall giving an upscale feeling. It is subtle and unexpected in a coach of this price range. The right section of the counter pulls out with its drawers and additional counter top being revealed. The Serrano has more counter space than many larger coaches. Making real meals in this RV should be both easy and enjoyable. Completing the kitchen is a full height pantry and double-door refrigerator.

Forward of the galley are an opposing sofa-bed and "U" shaped dinette – both in leather.  The arrangement is both functional and social.  Six full-sized adults can be seated for conversation and refreshments in this living area.

Up front, two very comfortable captain's chairs, in leather to match the sofa and dinette, face a simple and functional dashboard. RV dashes vary from flat surfaces that look assembled in a neighbor's garage to aircraft cockpits, which require training to operate. The Serrano is neither of those. It is a combination of simple curves, easy to read gauges and readily accessible switches. The center stack is also clean with optional rear camera monitor and a fully-featured RV radio. Then in front of the passenger is a pull-out computer tray for doing email or navigating as co-pilot. There are also plenty of air conditioning ducts.

At first glance, the dash lacks flash and appears really simple. After living with it, it is clear that this flows with the rest of the coach – form following function – like a fine car would provide.

With the Captains' seats turned around, they join the sofa and dinette area to create a very spacious living space. In the 31V, the standard HDTV is a 32" model in a cabinet across from the kitchen that is easily viewed by all at eye level. It is pre-wired for an optional satellite dish.

Moving toward the back past the kitchen there is a full size wardrobe on the driver's side. Opposite is an entry to the self-contained bath which is located on the passenger side.  The bath has ample counter space, a ceramic toilet and full-size shower with skylight for an open feeling as well as extra light. One very unique feature is included in the bathroom mirror. Part of the reflective surface is etched away at the top so that a light can be placed directly behind it. This makes for very even illumination while using the mirror. It's also an upscale touch you would not expect in a coach at this price range. (Typically two-way mirrors hide TVs while protecting them from moisture in the bathrooms of expensive custom coaches.)

Finally, at the rear of the Serrano is a private bedroom with a queen-size bed. The design makes it look like it floats on a platform. What the two step-ups also do, however, is create the space for the "Mega" exterior storage area underneath outside. A wardrobe is in either corner, and the back wall above the headboard is covered with a mirror. It features the same treatment as the bathroom mirror for a low light in the bedroom late at night. There are also individual reading lamps for both sides of the bed.

As mentioned earlier, options are few. Leather, full body paint and a diesel generator are standard making this a fully equipped coach to begin with. A few of the key options include: Sirius radio, power driver's seat, HD satellite dish, home theater system, outdoor entertainment system and a bedroom television.

At just under 33' in length and 8' wide, the Serrano 31V goes where larger coaches just can't go. At the same time, it offers style, storage and diesel at an affordable price. That's why RV Buddies named it one of the "Best of Show" coaches in Hershey this year.

RV Buddies Online names four RVs from the PRVCA show in Hershey, Pennsylvania "Best of Show".

With 59 manufacturers represented, there were many impressive RVs on display at the 41st annual PA RV & Camping Show. The event, which always creates a lot of expectation as people flock to see the new models, didn’t disappoint this year as a record crowd of 31,700 was on hand to check out the brand new 2010 models.

"The manufacturers delivered some exciting products for the 2010 model year," commented Host and Producer Mark Summers adding, "After walking the show and filming for nearly a week, several coaches simply stood out to us."

For the 2009 PRVCA show in Hershey, RV Buddies is proud to name the following "Best of Show":

(Click on images for larger view)

Winnebago VIA

Winnebago has delivered a great coach that will be a standard-setter for the next decade. It is for this generation what the View was for the last. It offers a sleek package and good mileage. On our test drive, the coach impressed with a stable, secure ride.

Four Winds Serrano

Four Winds is associated with value. The Serrano offers great styling, storage, floor plans and diesel at a great price. It's a great combination in a nicely sized package.

Winnebago Tour

This "Best of Show" is for the entire Tour line-up, as well as the sister-coach, the Itasca Ellipse. Winnebago re-invented their top-of-the-line Class A diesel pusher with some truly innovative layouts. They have even jumped into the fray with a 42' tag axle model.

JMS Galileo

The all-new Galileo is a 21' trailer. The custom-molded front cap is euro-aerodynamic. Inside, the fit, finish, materials and equipment are without compromise. If you are looking for an efficient-sized, high end towable, the Galileo should be on your short list.

Following the success of the PRVCA show, RV Buddies will continue to film next month at the California RV Show in Pomona, California, with plans to shoot at the Florida RV Super Show in January. After attending these major debut shows, RV Buddies plans to name their "RV(s) of the Year".

The Pennsylvania RV and Camping Show, America’s Largest RV Show, held in Hershey, PA reported record attendance at this year’s event. Over 31,700 people attended the event held at the Hershey Entertainment and Resorts Complex; GIANT CenterSM from September 14th – 20th – almost a 14 percent increase from 2008 and a record for the history of the show.

The event was very successful for its many exhibitors. Opening with Industry Days, the show gives manufactures the opportunity to meet with dealerships to discuss their new product line.

“Fairmont was able to sign more new business than last year,” John Soard of Fairmont Homes says.  “The retail days were notably busier than in previous years, and there were very qualified destination customers in attendance.  Everybody in the park model village was upbeat about the attendance.”

Sales were also on the rise during the show’s public days. “Tiffin Motorhomes, Inc. set a new sales record at this year’s Hershey Show,” said Nick Palm of Tiffin Motorhomes Inc. “Tiffin's Retail Sales were up 235 percent over retail sales last year.  Consumer attitudes were very positive, which reflected in the increased sales.” Jean-Claude Guilbault, regional sales manager of Roadtrek says, “We had the best show in Hershey so far.”

“It was a fabulous show,” Show Chairman Dan Saltzgiver, owner of Reichart’s Camping Center, Hanover, PA says. “Hopefully it’s an indication that the economy and industry is turning around.”

The excitement of the RV lifestyle brought thousands to the show to check out the 2010 models and cash in on the spectacular prices. The Pennsylvania RV and Camping Association (PRVCA), the organization responsible for managing the event, contributes a portion of the event’s success to value recognition by consumers. “GoRVing has done a wonderful job delivering the message to consumers that the RV lifestyle offers great value to families and we continued that message into the marketing of the show,” Rebecca Lenington, Executive Vice President of PRVCA says. “PRVCA also increased its marketing initiatives by dipping into reserves at a critical time for our members.”

The show proves that consumers are hungry for recreational vehicles. Low interest rates and government tax incentives were the icing on the cake making the PA RV & Camping Show the ultimate time to purchase a new RV. The vast array of new 2010 products and with 59 manufacturers exhibiting, there was no better place to shop and compare.

Mark your calendars now for the 2010 PA RV & Camping Show held September 13 – 19, 2010 at the GIANT CenterSM in Hershey, PA! For more information visit largestrvshow.com.

RV Buddies Online has returned from the PRVCA Hershey RV show with 16 segments filmed and ready for post production.

The show featured RVs from over 55 manufacturers including 2010 premiere models, along with a host of aftermarket products and accessories.

RV Buddies was able to get their first look at a number of the 2010 models and able to review many of them to bring back to their audience, including the Open Range Residential, Born Free 22 Rear Kitchen, Carriage Cameo, Winnebago VIA, Winnebago Tour, Four Winds Serrano, Tiffin RED, Keystone Fuzion, Forest River XLR, Newmar Canyon Star toy hauler, and the Galileo trailer.

Besides coach reviews, aftermarket products and accessories, a number of industry veterans were filmed, including "The RV Doctor," Gary Bunzer, and RV Adventures' John Holod.

Additionally RV Buddies shot several spots to feature the local flavor of the community – that flavor being chocolate.  “Robert and Elise had a lot of fun with those and may have gained a few pounds while filming them,” Summers said, referring to show co-hosts Robert Wittenberg and Elise Baughman’s tours of various local chocolate-themed attractions.

The PRVCA reported on their Facebook page that over 31,000 attended what they bill as “Americas Largest RV Show.” Local network news covering the show reported: "If the RV Industry is any indicator of the economy, the recession is over."

“I can believe it!” said Summers, “they were times when it was very crowded and it was hard for us to film a review due to the amount of people that were exploring the coaches.  In fact, one time we had to come back and finish a review later because a dealer was busy selling an RV to a happy customer.”

Summers was very pleased with the trip.  “It was a great success.  As was our first live blogcast.  We’ve received a lot of comments about how much people really enjoyed getting a live look at what was going on around the show.”

For those who missed it live, the blogcast can currently be found in the “News Bytes” section. Photos, reviews and other coverage of the PRVCA RV Show will begin appearing later this week and roll out over the next few months.

Photos: RVBuddiesOnline.com

8:27 AM EST, Monday, September 14, 2009
This is our first LIVE Blogcast.

After weeks of planning and preparation and gathering together a really great crew, our RV Buddies adventure to Hershey has finally begun!  We can't wait to check out all the 2010 models and accessories - along with the other 35,000 people that are expected to be there.

It was really hard, but we have narrowed down our focus from the hundreds of coaches that will be at the show, to the top two dozen or so, some great accessories, and a few amazing interviews...

So it's off to the airport for a long flight with one layover. Hopefully, all the gang will arrive on time. Tuesday is a day of scouting and introductions, and then our eighteen hours days begin at dawn on Wednesday - and we wouldn't have it any other way!

Oh and did we mention that in Hershey, Pennsylvania, they say that you can smell the chocolate in the air?

Keep checking back frequently as we will be updating from the show as often as we can through Saturday with TEXT, PICTURES, and if the wifi is good enough, some VIDEO updates. So get your scrolling finger perpared and stay tuned!

12:12 AM EST, Tuesday, September 15, 2009
LIVE from the Sweetest Town on Earth!

Hello Chocolate!  It was an early morning for the advance party as we were on our planes from California just after sunrise.  A quick 6 ½ hours later we landed in Baltimore and were driving up through the beautiful Pennsylvania countryside to Hershey.   It was dark by the time we arrived in the place popularly known as "Chocolatetown, USA."  With the Trade show wrapped up for the day all we could do is find ourselves a local restaurant and try out some of the local fare.  Dinner was deliscious, but the chocolate lava cake with THICK Hershey’s melted chocolate was a testament as to why Hershey is also referred to as "The Sweetest Place on Earth."

(Still trying to get the video upload working... Another try in the morning after a good nights' sleep.)

Tomorrow we’re off to the show and it’s all RVs all the time…  and maybe a little more chocolate!

10:22 AM EST, Tuesday, September 12, 2009
We Found a Working Internet Connection!

Here's a video from last night...  I wish you could taste it - sure was good!

11:43 EST, Tuesday, September 12, 2009
The VIA is Here... And more...

We touched it - it's real... along with loads of other new 2010 'Bagos and more... Stay tuned. The fun has just begun!

2:25 PM EST, September 15, 2009
Chocolate Lab

This is a tempting place. Besides all that is great at RV show, Robert and Elise will be taking some time to explore the inner workings that are 100% chocolate!

4:40 EST, Tuesday, September 15, 2009
The Hensley Arrow

There are a lot of great products here on the floor at the show, and one we're looking forward to taking a close look at is the Hensley Arrow - the safest hitch product on he market. Here I am with Ron Estrada,  Marketing Director of Hensley - in front of his booth in the Giant Center. The vendor day is closing - more tomorrow.

8:37 AM EST, Wednesday, September 15, 2009
The Cast and Crew

This is the cast and crew at 6:00AM - rockin' and ready to go - without color correction...  A little coffee and we're on our way!

11:00 AM EST, September 16, 2009
Robert, Elise and Mark Having Fun...

The show is great and we're looking at all sorts of great new models. Lots of pictures to come - keep checking back!

11:41 AM EST, September 16, 2009
New Winnebago Tour 40BD

Mark admits to loving this coach, and Elise and Robert want to renegotiate their deals with RV Buddies! We had to fight our way to get in. This is the first day of the show and the crowds are HUGE!  Check these pictures while we take a lunch break and scout out some more exciting 2010 products.

2:57 PM EST, September 16, 2009
Four Winds Serrano

Great curved exterior. Two slide outs up front. TONS of storage. Euro interior good looks. And the new W20 diesel??? Yes - at a family RVing price.

4:47 PM EST, September, 16, 2009
The Revolutionary Galileo

After walking through the Galileo, it's easy to say that as good as our original pictures were - they don't do this spectacular trailer justice!  Robert and Elise take a moment with proud founder Will Gibson to share their enthusiasm about this new product...

7:19 PM EST, September 16, 2009
Better RVing with Microsoft Streets and Trips

Elise discusses Microsoft Streets and Trips with Larry Petersen after his seminar on the the trip planning software.

8:02 AM EST, September 17, 2009
Day 2 of the Show Begins

Here's a few shots of your RV Buddies wandering around having fun at America's Largest RV Show...

12:14 PM EST, September 17 2009
Heather Leach of PRVCA Proudly Shares Show Info

Heather Leach, Marketing and Education Director, of the PRVCA (America's Largest RV Show) shares great news about the first consumer day of the show!

1:08 PM EST, September 17, 2009
The RV Doctor Is I the House!

Mark Summers poses with "The RV Doctor", Gary Bunzer, after talking about over 30 years of his industry expertise in the RV industry.

5:10 PM EST, September 17, 2009
The Chocolate Adventure

All work and no play is not RV Buddies style...  Robert and Elise take in the Hershey facilities to get a little education about chocolate with Kyle. Just when you think we've got a serious story - they go making headlines again!

7:33 PM EST, September 17, 2009
The Hensley Arrow - 100% Safe and NO Sway

Ron with Hensley just shot some video with Mark and Elise about the amazing Hensley Arrow. Go to nosway.com for full info until we edit the clip...

9:22 AM EST, September 18, 2009
Our  Production Assistant Rediscovers RVs

Garrett was walking around looking at the RVs and he had these comments about all the coaches after a period of not having RVs in his life.

3:51 PM EST, September 18, 2009
To Our New Jersey Fans...

Hello Tony, and please give our best fan, and your lovely wife a big RV Buddies hug from Robert, Elise and Mark!

Also - Garrett over-worked twisted his ankle, but is on the mend!

In the meantime, we continue to shoot coaches, and visited our friends at Pull Rite.

We also had a great time with John Holod of RV Adventures, spending a few minutes on his Alaska adventure... His word to the wide - avoid mooses

4:29 PM EST, September 18, 2009
The GIANT Center

Lots of stuff to see and do indoors...  Some of many exhibitors downstairs - you have to walk up all the stairs to the upper exhibits - a well deserved ice cream awaits all that quality exercise... and the Kettle corn and more!

5:47 PM EST, September 18, 2009
The Sun Sets Over the Hershey Show

As the sun begins to set, RVers continue to shop, drool and enjoy. We went over to the Tiffin booth to film the RED, and 3 coaches had been sold. In fact, there are SOLD signs everywhere! We sat with one set of folks who drove in from the Northeast who were ordering a Phaeton. Boy were they excited. Actually we were very happy for them too. It's a great feeling to get a new coach.

Here are few final photos from us as we prepare to wrap our day here, and fly our in the AM... Some final thoughts later.

Still shopping at Winnebago

Garret is shocked that it's already time to go

RV Buddies will be "Blogcasting" LIVE from America's Largest RV Show in Hershey, PA beginning today, Monday, September 14th.

A special page has been created on the site that will utilize advanced "Push" web technology. Mark, Robert and Elise will be "blasting" texts and photos LIVE as they discover the hot, new RVs and products being launched for 2010. CLICK HERE to follow the LIVE feed.

Daily video updates are planned, but that is dependent on tests being conducted during the vendor days to see if the bandwidth in the area supports the large uploads.

Vendor response to RV Buddies filming was phenomenal. Over 20 reviews are locked-in with some surprise additions possible. In addition to participating with the reviews, Robert and Elise will be touring the town and sites of Hershey, PA.

After the immense and continued popularity of the Winegard and Bob Tiffin videos, Mark Summers will conduct several interviews with top industry leaders at the event.

RV Buddies will be shooting upcoming segments for their internet television show at the 41st annual Pennsylvania RV and Camping Show from September 16th through September 20th.

Billed as the “The largest RV show in America,” and featuring over 58 leading manufacturers and 110 supplier vendors, this year’s PRVCA show is expected to draw over 35,500 attendees to its Hershey, Pennsylvania location.

“Not only is it the largest RV show in the country, but it’s the first chance to see the new 2010 models and all the latest accessories,” said RV Buddies Host and Producer Mark Summers. “We're as excited as our viewers to see what's new for 2010.”

RV Buddies plans to shoot a minimum of ten comprehensive RV reviews featuring both motorized and towable products. In addition, ten segments will cover accessories and the RV lifestyle at the show. "It's an aggressive schedule," says Mark Summers adding, "but after a successful first season shooting over 35 segments and a full length documentary, the cast and crew are up to the challenge."

The number of new products at the show this year is extensive. RV Buddies has its sights on many of the newest offerings from the manufacturers. Reviews will include towables, new lightweight coaches hybrids and new fuel efficient models. Some manufacturers are being very secretive about their hot new releases.

In addition to filming RVs and accessories at the show, Hosts Robert Wittenburg and Elise Baughman will be shooting a special segment in and around Hershey. Robert is fully prepared for a chocolate adventure. "After eating a bug in Pismo Beach - this should be easy," comments Robert. Little does he know he may be dipped and sprinkled!

For his part, Summers has several interviews scheduled with top RV industry executives. "Our interview with Bob Tiffin was very well received" says Summers, "it still remains in the top ten videos viewed on the site and so we want to do more."

Exhibiting vendors are encouraged to contact RV Buddies as the production schedule isn’t completely locked down. Mark can be reached at: Mark@RVBuddiesOnline.com.

CLICK HERE to print a coupon to save $1.00 to the show