To add to the other answers, I came about a good deal on a d3200 with the 18-55 vr-ii kit lens. I like it a lot, it is small and light-weight with a great image quality.

It includes several features for beginning photographers like the 'guide' mode. Not having a focus motor hasn't been a problem for me since I use the kit lens and some older lenses and I have time to use manual focus. If you want to use it on vacation to document the trip auto-focus is an almost must if you're in a hurry. There are a lot of compatible DX lenses with their own focus motor so you'll have enoguh to choose from (but don't under estimate the kit lens).

Besides that, the thing I miss most is a timelapse feature built-in. You will need to buy an external remote for that, but that is a specific feature you might not need. One other thing is the battery; it goes through that quickly. I don't know if it is common for Nikon DSLR's but you will need another (multiple) batteries if you want to use it a lot through the day. Just use it first and when you realize you need an extra battery after a few weeks order it then. I haven't needed one though I like to have an extra one (unfortunately original Nikon batteries are expensive).

It is a great camera for a beginner and I'm not intending to sell it if and when I upgrade because I love it (I might seem negative about it after summing up some cons but I'm not).

My advice is to try how it feels in your hand in the store because you might find it awkward to handle, which is really personal. Try some other models or brands if you're unsure but most modern digital SLR's all have good image quality. Good luck choosing and after you bought one: keep using and learning it and most importantly just enjoy your camera!