I can say from the perspective of using S3 for 4 years and G3 for 1 month and give You some comparison.
Get a superzoom is my advice.
I had Canon S3 IS and am having Lumix G3, so i can tell You - Canon superzooms macro is superior to the G3. Putting aside the sensor and image quality difference (resolution, sensivity), you can shoot things that lay on the lenses. With G3 i have to be at least 20cm from the object.
I hate the way i have to hold G3 - S3 was far better to handle and easier to control via many dedicated buttons. Articulated display is also very helpful with macro (both my cameras have it).
Superzooms also cover you sister's travel you've mentioned.
Size wise these cameras are the same.
Do i regret having G3 instead of another superzoom ? A little, yes. I miss my S3 (it broke down):(
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6 or 5+7, lifting a hand or two is so tiresome!
I can say from the perspective of using S3 for 4 years and G3 for 1 month and give You some comparison. Get a superzoom is my advice. I had Canon S3 IS and am having Lumix G3, so i can tell You - Canon superzooms macro is superior to the G3. Putting aside the sensor and image quality difference (resolution, sensivity), you can shoot things that lay on the lenses. With G3 i have to be at least 20cm from the object. I hate the way i have to hold G3 - S3 was far better to handle and easier to control via many dedicated buttons. Articulated display is also very helpful with macro (both my cameras have it). Superzooms also cover you sister's travel you've mentioned. Size wise these cameras are the same. Do i regret having G3 instead of another superzoom ? A little, yes. I miss my S3 (it broke down) :(