I used to use 35mm SLRs, developed my own stuff, moved onto DSLR and then couldn't be arsed to drag around all the kit along with children and all the family blah blah so downscaled to a compact. it's limitations became infuriatingly apparent on holiday in Costa Rica last year when I just couldn't get close enough, enough light or a fast enough speed to shoot anything that hadn't been nailed to a branch. I'm no expert but can find my way around a camera... but I'll need to brush up a bit. Well, a lot!
Have you considered compact Panasonics? Some models have a big lens. I also do not like to carry a suitcase full of lenses on my holiday