I dont get what all the fascination with DSLR's for exploring is (with the exception of some users which really make the most of it). A decent compact (with manual controls, RAW file format, long exposure etc -not just a point and shoot) gets some spot on results and suits carrying round exploring more. Thats how I roll.
If you want something more in the camera then look at the interchangeable lens compacts (AKA mirrorless), they sit nicely between a compact camera and a DSLR (where as bridge cameras were kind of the worst of both, interchangeable lens compacts are the best of both IMO)
If you want something more in the camera then look at the interchangeable lens compacts (AKA mirrorless), they sit nicely between a compact camera and a DSLR (where as bridge cameras were kind of the worst of both, interchangeable lens compacts are the best of both IMO)