G1X and external flash

I am toying with getting an external flash for my G1X. Canon offers several models, but most are a bit pricey (I have a Nikon DSLR & $$ Nikon flash for really long-range work- sorry). Anyone tried out the lower end Canon flashes with G1X? What about Metz flashes - they make a "dedecated" unit for about C$200.00. Any comments on Metz? I do not intend to light up a concert hall with this combo, just get a bit more reach than the built in flash, or shoot bounce flash in houses or mayby restaurants.
Thanks in advance. Ken

P.S. I put a plastic hot shoe cover on the G1X and this conpletely immobilized all flash functions. When removed, the flash functions returned to normal. Anyone else notice this?