Not sure if posted in right place advice needed

Hey
I would like to know what camera (digital or not) I can buy that is quite cheap but is a great camera for newbies at photography? (I am looking for something as cheap as I can go to get a good camera)
I also wanted to ask for advice about how I can get into photography, as I am going on holiday I thought that was a good advantage for me to get into photography and take pictures.
Another aspect that I am interested in was sports photography, to be specific photography in cricket. What ways are there to get into this and learn about this?
Thanks

I would go with a Canon something....though I am a canon nerd.

Canon A510, $180
And check this, combo price, this camera for $180, and you can get a 256mb SD Card for $0.24 extra!!!!!
http://www2.newegg.com/Product/Produ...82E16830120167

Canon A400, $140 or less, not too much zoom, good beginner camera
Same deal with the memory.

Well, this is a digital cameras forum. There are other forums here that might be better, if you're interested in film. And if price is a consideration, film might be better. You still get a lot more camera for the money with film. Although you do have to weigh that against the expense of buying and processing your film. For sports, an SLR camera makes a big difference. Currently, the least expensive digital SLRs cost about $800 US, plus the cost of a lens. I don't know what your budget is. But if you're serious about sports photography - especially something like cricket, where you can't be right next to the players, then investing an SLR migt be the right thing to do. You can buy a good 35mm film SLR for well under $500. You'll have to spend a lot more on a digital SLR.

I'm hoping that my short response helps give you some direction. I'm sure you have more questions. But maybe they'll be more specific now. We can definitely help you make a decision. But you need to think about what your real needs are, and how much you have to spend.