Caroline, I will always lean to the Canon family. I really like the colour quality.
The S2 Si is still available down in the states and it great camera, but a little big (I like that feels solid.) It is in the 350 range giving room for buying cards.
Pj
"PowerShot S2 IS is ready for action to handle the busiest lifestyles!
Compact 5.0 Megapixel digital camera
Super long 12x Optical /4x Digital / 48x Combined Zoom with Optical Image
Stabilizer technology, UD glass and Aspherical lens for excellent sharpness and color
Takes still images up to 5.0 Megapixels while shooting movies with the new, exclusive "MovieSnap" feature
1.8" Vari-Angle LCD screen for clear image previews and reviews, and special Night Display function option for clearer view of subjects in dim shooting conditions
High-quality 30 fps VGA continuous movie recording, with powerful features including optical zooming during the movie and Stereo Sound
DIGIC II Image Processor and iSAPS Technology for superior image quality, faster camera operation and lower power consumption
USB 2.0 Hi-Speed interface for faster downloads and file transfers
Dimension: 4.45 x 3.07 x 2.97 in. (w x h x d)
Accessories included: 16MB SD Memory Card, 4 -AA-size Alkaline Batteries , Stereo Video Cable, Interface Cable, Neck Strap, Digital Camera Solution CD-ROM and Lens Cap"