A guy.. good to have OIS. A lot of travelling
Yappy & happy
Don't think you want any second-hand suggestions, so below $500 limits your choices quite a LOT, since you want IS.
Can always consider the Canon Powershot A570 IS, I quite like the specs, though I haven't read any reviews on it:
- 7.1 MP CCD image sensor
- 4x optical zoom lens
- Optical Image Stabilizer
- DIGIC III image processor and iSAPS
- Face Detection AF/AE/FE
- ISO 1600 and High ISO Auto
- 2.5 LCD screen with optical viewfinder
- PictBridge and Print/Share button
Should be $410 thereabouts, I think, within your budget.
If you need longer optical zoom, Canon Powershot A710 IS:
- 7.1 Megapixels
- 6X Optical Zoom
- Image Stabilizer
- 2.5" LCD Display
- Digital Teleconvertor
- Safety Zoom
- DIGIC II Sensor
- iSAPS
- 9-Point AiAF
- Flexizone AF/AE
- 21 Shooting Modes
- VGA Movie with sound
Older model, but 6x zoom.
Should consider F31fd, though, seriously. Fujifilm P&S has the best image quality, and the high ISO capability means you can shoot at higher ISO and lower shutter speed.. Thereby negating the need for IS in some way as well.