I bought a fuji finepix S1000 around 18 months ago. I managed to get a gret deal off ebay, so much so that the prices are still relatively the same now as what I bought it for.
The camera has more features than I can possibly use, and also has manual override functions for setting the shutter speed.
Its extremely good at Macro photography (close ups) and I have some cracking photo's of Bees on flowers in the garden.
The quality is superb, the size is just right, its not too big to lump around and will squeeze into the wifes handbag when you're drunk on holiday.
We've taken loads of photo's and whilst Im no David Bailey we have had some great results with it.
On the downside you need to buy a bigger memory card for it straight away. Also the redeye reduction is not great, and the reaction between clicking the button and the photo taking place is about a second which means you can miss essential shots such as the dog actually looking at you.
But I will still recommend this camera and its a great introduction to SLR cameras even though it isnt actually SLR, if you get my meaning. I'll definately consider another Fuji when I upgrade.