new P&S questions. could use some help. newbie

In this class of camera, both Panasonic and Canon are good bets, in terms of photographic image quality and well-thought out design for ease of use. That's not to say other brands aren't good, just that these two are.

I have not used the specific model you are considering, but it seems to have a good set of features and compact size. I don't think you'll find vastly different image quality between this and other cameras in the same price range.

Regarding blow-up prints, this with 16MP should do a decent job. In fact with regard to image quality your limitations will be less in blow-up size than in low-light performance or selective focus. But that will be true for any camera of this class.

Make sure you include in your budget a second battery so you can always have a fully charged spare with you at all times, and a memory card. Good luck!