For the money that Product13 is considering then I'd go for the Fujifilm S100FS which has a keen following:
http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/FujifilmS100fs/
Alternatively, consider the newer S200EXR which is supposed to replace it. Unfortunately, some regard it as a bit of a downgrade.
http://www.dpreview.com/news/0907/09...ilms200exr.asp
But, for the money, you may be happier with an entry-level DSLR - or perhaps, not so entry level if you buy second hand. Or keep your eye open for end-of-line deals. I got a Pentax K100Ds from Argos for far less than my Fujifilm S9500. Although the zoom doesn't have the range it's streets ahead in terms of image quality and useability.