| Well, IMO you have two options. You can go DSLR, or you can get a top-of-the-line digicam.
If you want to get serious about photography, definitely go for the DSLR. However, know that there's going to be a fair learning curve, and you WILL want to drop a lot of cash on additional lenses/equipment. When you learn how to use it, you'll enjoy many benefits over digicams.
On the other hand, if you want to be able to pick up the camera, fire off a few shots and have them be as good as possible with minimum hassle, a nice digicam is the way to go. Using an SLR can be a production, with set-up and post-processing not to mention oeprating it. If good "snapshots" or somewhat serious but easy shots are what you want, you'll be happier with a digicam.
HTH
Travis |