Well, that depends on a few factors. What do you want to photograph, how much photo gear do you want to carry around, what size and weight do you want it to be, what skill level are you with cameras, and most importantly, how much do you want to spend? I know many people like using their smartphones to take pictures, but the digital age has opened more people up to the idea of getting a better camera that can do more things.
So, let's look at each factor:
1) What do you want to photograph? Some people want to photograph landscapes, sports, people, macro of flowers, or just everything. Each of those areas require something different in order to obtain the image you are looking for. For landscapes, you will need a camera with a good wide angle lens to capture a wide vista. For sports, you will need a camera with a large enough zoom lens to reach across the field to capture your child on the soccer field. And, don't forget that it will need image stabilization on the lens (you will thank me latter for that). For photographing flowers and small objects, you will need a camera with a very good macro lens to get in really tight and sharp (and don't forget a tripod). For people, a moderate zoom lens, or 50mm lens is what is needed to bring about great portraits. But, if you like to do all the above, then you will need to get a camera that has the same attributes noted above. Some cameras can do that. DSLR's are great because you can change the lenses for whatever you need to do. But know that you will be buying a variety of lenses, and carry around all those lenses with you. There point and shoot cameras that can do a lot of things, but not usually at the quality that a DSLR can. In between the those two segments are "bridge" cameras that fill the space between DSLR's and point and shoots. The nice thing about those bridge cameras is that the lenses are incorporated into the camera. So, you can have a wide and zoom all in one while providing good image quality and little to carry around.
2) How much gear do you want to carry around? This was kind of answered above, but if you are adventurous and want to obtain that perfect image quality, then you may want to carry all the lenses you want. But if not, and you want to enjoy your vacation, get a camera that is an all-in-one like a point and shoot or a bridge camera.
3) What size and weight to you want it to be? Cameras come in all shapes and sizes. Make sure you hold the camera of your choosing in your hand to get a feel of it and to see if you can operate it without shaking. Also, think about how portable do you want it to be.
4) What skill level are you with cameras? How much do you know about photography? Before spending a lot of money a DSLR, you may want to start with a camera that's not too intricate. The goal is to enjoy photography, not to get frustrated with all the buttons and wonder how to get this thing to do what I want it do. Start low and build up. If you want to take the step up to a DSLR, think about renting the camera first to see if you even like it. Samy's Camera has rental departments with top of the line DSLR's to rent. That's a great way to see if you really want to make that big jump up.
5) How much do you want to spend? This factor can range from a few hundred to a couple of thousands…and more! Think about what you want to do and what level you are as a photographer and set a budget from there. Remember, that if you get a DSLR, you will need to factor in the cost of the lenses as well as the camera body.
For a great camera review site, check out CNET.com to review cameras of all types. Another great site for really in-depth reviews is DPReview.com.
For great prices on cameras, check out Samys.com (click on their Weekly Ad at the top of their website), BHPhotoVideo.com, and Adorama.com. Sam's Club has a variety of cameras for sale, and they also have a great return policy if you don't like it.
One last thing, when buying a camera, always look into getting the best type of lens. Some point and shoots, bridge, and DSLR's come with basic lenses. But some come with better optics to create really clear and sharp images. It may cost more, but the results are astounding!
