Camera for RTW trip?

I know there is another forum for cameras, but as I am planning a RTW at some point next year and I am about to buy my first digital camera... I would like to know what camera would you take... or you would recommend.

Would you prefer a lighter and a bit smaller one? or would you go for the slightly better (I think) but somewhat heavier and bulkier?

Here are my 2 options:

LUMIX PANASONIC DMC-TZ3: zoom 10.0 x wide angle, LCD 3.00 in, 280 gr.

RICOH CAPLIO R6: zoom 7.1x wide angle, LCD 2.7, 165 gr.

Any suggestions?

The Ricoh allows more artistic creativity - offering more manual control should you wish to use it (or fully automatic operation if that's your preference). Ricoh also uses less aggressive 'in camera' processsing - which means you have a 'purer' image to work on if you want to process your images yourself.

Ricoh has far superior macro operation - it's macro and macro zoom programs are clear class leaders. However, both cameras are excellent. Neither will disappoint you.

I'm off round the world next year and I'm taking my Canon 30D. Not on your list, but the point is that although it's darn heavy with the lenses I have, It's coming with us as the pictures it can be made to take are spectacular, and for that reason , I will live with the weight.

The point is, it depends on how important the quality of the pictures are vs weight carrying.

fyi I'm taking my 30D, a Canon zoom lense, and my Sigma 1.4 fixed (amazing for low light). No flash, and a solar charger.

I'd go with the smaller one.