Digital camera quality has gone up while prices have come down (as is usually the case with electronics). There are dozens and dozens of quality cameras available in every price range. These days, even a relatively cheap digital camera ($100 or so) has features and capabilities that will serve you well.
I suggest you do a google search for "Digital camera reviews," select the price range you want to shop in, and see what's available. Asking anyone which camera to buy is pointless... ask 100 people and you'll get 100 different answers. It's like asking people to recommend the best color or the best ice cream flavor.
Really, the best way is to do a google search, pick a price range and stick to only those cameras in your price range, read the reviews, and make your choice. If you are on a budget, ignore anything above your price range... you want to find a good camera that fits your needs and is within your budget. No sense looking at expensive cameras. If you were in the market for a new car and could afford $25,000, you wouldn't shop at a Ferrari or Rolls Royce dealership... right?
Here is just one site (of many) to get you started.
http://reviews.cnet.com/digital-cameras/