RE: [A/S] Safari vs International

["David & Bret" <dtbw_1999@xxxxxxxxx>]

Mark,
We have a 2002 19' Bambi LS and love it.  As Hunter pointed out, the
difference between the Safari and CCD Bambi is mainly interior, but
there are a few exterior differences.  The main exterior difference is
windows.  The Front window is the wraparound type like used in the
Classic A/S.  The CCD also adds a few oval porthole windows.  A common
misunderstanding is that the CCD also includes the Safari upgrade
package (it does not).  The Safari upgrade is basically a package of
convenience items along with some that I think should be standard, such
as a spare tire.  The interior of the CCD is  pretty much a love/hate
affair.  One reason that the CCD cost so much more is that a significant
portion of the cost differential goes directly to Mr. Dean for his
efforts in designing the interior and the fact that his initials, "CCD"
are used.  There are NO differences in the size, chassis, appliances,
layout (in the 19') between the two models.  So, you just have to decide
which interior you like better.  

As for size, it really depends on your intended usage.  If you full-time
like Hunter, then a larger A/S is certainly in order.  If you are like
us and will use the A/S for weekends and vacations AND there will be no
more than 2 people, then the smaller A/Ss work well.  The 19' is a great
little package.  Take a look at our pics here posted on this site to see
what you can do if you don't like either interior.  While our Bambi had
the Safari upgrade (the LS designator) which gave it Corian counters
among other things, the interior was hopelessly bland.  After the
makeover, our Bambi constantly gets praise from everyone that enters and
almost without exception, they say, this is so much bigger than it looks
outside.  The 19' Bambi (as well as the 16') can be towed safely with
most SUVs on the market, BUT the larger A/S (starting with the 22') are
more trailer than an SUV can safely handle (wheelbase is the major
issue).  You really need a full sized truck for the larger A/Ss.

BTW, if you look at our pic, you will note that we have the front sofa
layout vs the dinette.  This was our choice and we still prefer the sofa
as we typically eat outside.  As there is no table in the front sofa
version, we carry folding TV tables that we can use indoors or out.
Works well for us.

david