I'm still torn between several cameras! At this point, I'm almost thinking about going cheaper and getting a Panisonic LZ3 or LZ5. They've got similar features to the Canon A700 (minus the manual controls and plus image stabilization) for about $150 less. I did finally find someone selling the A700, but for some reason I'm still not convinced it's the way to go.

LA,
Does this link help you to make your mind up?
www.dcresource.com/buyersguide/

I know what you mean, that is why I have held off getting one too, I keep looking at other camera's. The lack of image stabiliser is a real sticking point for me. I think the big zoom got me interested to start with. But I really just want something to point and shoot. And don't really know if I would use the manual controls either.

You must be nearly ready to go, it is Friday evening here so I guess you must have only one day to go?

Fingers crossed for you.

LA,
Just going back to that site I looked at the new Panasonic TZ1, that might be worth a look too.

Maudie

Oh goodness Maudie, the TZ1 is the one that I originally asked about
If it wasn't for the fact that it has a proprietary battery and nobody is selling spares right now, I would have bought it three days ago. I'm just real nervous about relying on one battery for our trip. I'm afraid I'll get to Angkor and run out of shots half way through the day and have to go back to the room to re-charge it!

Hi, I also have been researching for a small portable camera for my asia trip the end of may. The new canon powershot sd700 which I only see coming available on May 20 has image stabilization, but if you are going shortly I have heard great things about the other canon powershots(elph)here is a link for a review on the one you can buy right now, which is the sd550. http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/canonsd550/
Good luck,
Maimu

According to DPReview site the A700 does not have IS. I have also looked at the Canon site and used the camera at a local camera shop, I am sure it hasn't. Where did you get the info on that?

LA I really like the look of the TZ1, I think I will go and have a look at it. I would imagine you could get a spare battery in Langkawi for it. Did you have a look at the LZ5, that is nearly identical to the A700 but takes 2 AA's?

Maudie,
I just went out and bought the TZ1 and I'm keeping my fingers crossed that I don't run out of battery juice. As you suggested, I might take a look around Langkawi or BKK for a spare battery, but you can't even get them on Panasonic's web site yet, so not counting on finding one.

As far as the 700 w/ IS referenced above, Maimu was referring to the Canon sd700IS, not the A700. The sd700IS will be out in May. I would have seriously considered it if it was out now. I also considered the LZ5, as you mentioned, but I just couldn't resist the longer zoom and higher quality lens of the TZ1.

I hope it works out well for me!

Oops you're right - I didn't read carefully enough.
Glad to hear that you got a camera, I will be curious to see how you enjoyed playing with it. Please post back.

Have a really great time, I am jealous!
All the best

Maudie

Some recommendations on saving battery juice if you only have one battery and are worried about dying on you: limit the time you spend reviewing (and especially deleting) pictures you've already taken - that eats up battery life. Also, use the viewfinder rather than the display on the back - it takes less juice. And of course, the flash is a major battery hog. (These things may be simply stating the obvious, but they're easy to forget!)

I always tend to find that with travel photography that I trend to use wide angle lenses much more so than long telephoto lenes. I carry a Canon S70 with a wide angle 35 mm equivalent of 28mm and telephoto equivalent of somewhere around 100mm that suits 90% of my needs. The new S80 is better but does not do RAW but I am sure JPG would be fine for you. The new Panasonic FX 01 may be an even better option for you as it is smaller and cheaper but has a similar lens but smaller sensor.

hi everyone, yes, I am talking about the canon sd700is,. Has anyone seen in for purchase in california or on the internet? Anyone used it?. I would also love feedback,. I presently have a nikon d70. It is quite big, but a blast on taking photos. I just want an additional small one that would be easier to use and carry in the pocket.
thank you, maimu

althom1122, thanks for the tips. The TZ1 lacks a view finder unfortunately, but I will definitely do the other things!

maimu, the sd700 won't be released in the US until some time in May, so I doubt anyone has it yet.

mjs, I hear what you're saying about wide angle. It's just that we also love having that nice zoom. Can't seem to let it go for some reason! Someone else suggested getting both the FX01 and the TZ1 to compliment each other. If only we could afford that today!

i'm late, but in case anyone else is looking, thought I'd tell you I LOVED my Nikon coolpix s4 for our round the world trip. I'd planned to get a subcompact, but the sales rep talked me into the Nikon because of the zoom and manual controls. I'm so glad he did. It's small, but has a 10x zoom and I got some great animal shots in Africa. The other pics were mostly great too! I also liked being able to pick up 9v batteries rather than have to look for specialty ones. Despite having a recharger and adaptors, recharging never seemed to work. Only issues were the glare on screen at time and the chintzy lens protector. I simply loved it, as did my dau who wants one too.