Hi Jerry,
I'm sure you will get the information you need regarding Open Road here. I first saw the Open Road at the RV show in September. I haven't made the plunge yet. I'm not quite ready to take a loss on my trade yet.
Since you are new to RVing, a couple of forums you can get additional information for newbies is
irv2.com and
rv.net.
The best way to shop for RVs and better determine which is best for you, is to go to the RV shows. In fact, I'm going to the Dallas RV Show this weekend.
I see you are near my hometown. I grew up in Clinton, IA. My dad still lives in East Moline, IL. I don't blame you for wanting to spend winters elsewhere.
Good luck on your search.
Joe
2000 Wanderer 270RKS
2003 Chevrolet CC 2500HD Dmax/Allison
Hopefully future owner of Open Road 357 RLDS-5