I'd recommend the FZ8 or even the FZ18 here just to confuse you.
But seriously, Chaos is right:
The FZ8 has a great sharp, fast lens and the FZ18 has amazing coverage starting at 28mm wide which is a BOON to have in everyday circumstances.
Yes, it may be a bit noisy and all that but ALL of these cameras are a compromise in delivering such great versatility in so small a package.
The Panasonic cameras have my vote here, especially the FZ18. If you see the dpreview reviews of the FZ18 and the S5 - they initially recommend the S5 above all other cameras (though the camera itself doesn't earn a highly recommended tag) and THEN they later say that the FZ18 is the best superzoom out there.
FZ18, ftw. Or the FZ8 if you're budget conscious.
Payne
PS: Keep in mind "the compromises" line. I'm serious, all of these cameras are good at ISO 100-200 and at around 5-6MP at best. They are not great at pixel-peeping at 100%, but they are a serious photographic tool which will challenge your skills and make GREAT web photographs and decent large prints.