What is the BEST digital camera to purchase?

Minimum 5 megapixel

Having used Cannon, Olympus, and Nikon digital Cameras I would go with a Cannon Camera. A "Cannon Powershot A620" if you want a compact camera. A "Cannon Digital Rebel" if you want a bigger camera as well as interchangeable lenses and longer focusing ability.

Go for higher end Sony CyberShot or Nikon. Picture quality and features in these two cameras are the best.

A VERY subjective question, with lots of personal preferences to consider.

Having said that: Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ2. Inexpensive, 6x optical zoom, anti shake. You don't need more than 5mp. One drawback is that the case is plastic, but that seems minor imo.

I suggest you visit dpreview.com. There you can vet out what is important to you, and what isn't.

Nikon D200.