I just got a Nikon P90 for xmas and so far I love it.. I am still learning to use the different settings but it takes great pictures on the auto setting so far
Its a higher end point and shoot camera and not a SLR.. We got it for right under $400!
If you want a smaller camera (something to fit in your pocket/purse and doesn't really have a bunch of settings) then I would recommend a casio exilim... That is what we had before and it takes great pictures! I just wanted a fancier camera and thats why I got the Nikon! I think we got that one for under $200 but that was years ago!!!!