the price range can be quite different between a canon powershot A1000/2000 and LX3 and S90.
Lumix LZ10 is also a good choice for cheap and good cam with full manual functions.
if yr budget is low ($200+) and u are a beginner, get a powershot A1000/2000 or Lumix LZ10. cheap and good. runs on AA batt.
If you got $700 to burn, then get a LX3 or S90
If i were you, i will just get a cheap one and play until u song and learn all the basics first. U dun even know whether your interests in photography will last or not.......