what's a good cheap but good...
 

Point and shoot for around $200 USD?

Canon A530, $199.99 5MP 4X Optical
Does automatic all the way to full manual (shutter speed, aperture, iso, WB, the works)
Takes Secure Digital cards and two AA batteries (get rechargables)
Only camera I'd recommend under $200

if your budget stretches and your looking for a more professional orientated camera you should consider the fuji s5200, it can be had for about $240.

sample photos:
http://www.pbase.com/cameras/fujifil...pix_s5200_zoom
review:
http://www.steves-digicams.com/2006_...uji_s5200.html

ofcourse, its not small nor is it perfect - but theres some great glass on the front of it ;) and some great features. when it comes down it its still down to the person holding the camera to make a great shot.

I had the Fuji S7000 and it took great photos but I wouldn't call it a "point and shoot" if one of the criteria is portability.

Thank you!

remember to tell us what you get in the end and post up pictures.

I'll let you know which one my friend goes with---the cheaper of the 3. He has no Internet. He wants it for a trip to Sir Lanka, to visit family and friends.

Update: Canadian prices are just too high for even a modestly priced/decent digicam, so my buddy is holding off for a couple of years; and he's going to stick with his film cam for the big trip. Thanks again for the suggestions.