Need a P&S for a Relative

[carney2]

I shoot a D200 and know nothing about P&S digital cameras. As the family "expert" I have been asked to recommend a camera to replace a vintage 2001 camera that was lost/stolen. I have checked the reviews and am confused. I am looking for the "best possible" with the following simple buy points:

1. Maximum price in the $300 range.

2. Zoom.

3. MUST have a viewfinder that is held up to the eye as opposed to away from the face.

That's it.

Help, please.

[mn shutterbug]

Panasonic DMC-FZ7 or Canon S3is. They are both 6 mp and have 12X optical zooms. They also each have image stabilization.The Panasonic has a well respected Leica lens. Check out dpreview.com for specs on many cameras. I own the Panasonic and love it. I know there are others that love the Canon. They are both around $300 or less.