I've got a Sony A200 DSLR and as a beginner it's great to play with and fairly easy to use. I also had a Nikkon which was nicked but equally as much fun.
The down side to these DSLRs are simply the size, you have to make a conscious decision to take them out with you as none can just slip in your coat pocket. However, if you do take them with you, you can take some pretty awesome pictures with practice. Also a programme like Photoshop elements can add to the fun and the final results!!