Not what I needed just before my trip, but my Video Camcorder crapped out and I'm trying to buy a new one on the cheap.
I am partial to JVC due to the Compact VHS, as I tend not to find the time to transfer the tapes and therefore find it easy to pop a tape in the adapter to show it off.

My Dilema:
I have to choose between two JVC Cameras and for a difference of $100.00 I can have an option to record stills and transfer them via a USB port to computer, but the store "guy" said the pictures are crappy. I also get with this more expensive model, a night feature (forgot what he called it) that gives me the ability to record in pitch black areas (apparently not IR but in colour).

It is worth it? I didn't really want to spend any money this close to my trip and before Christmas too, but will I be missing out??

Anyone has any experience with this "night feature thing? It it worth the extra $100.00?

CPG,
I assume you are looking at digital camcorders? I highly recommend digital and would not consider anything less. Yes, the snapshot mode is just so-so. JVC does better with the snapshots on their camcorders than most other brands. But if you want great digital stills, you need a digital still camera. As for the night mode, my JVC has a "night alive" mode but I have not actually tried it, so I can't tell you much about it. It might be handy if you will be doing any shooting around dusk.

I would definively go for the night shot,once you get the other model, you're stock with it, no upgrade. Yes, the digital pictures it takes are no good, but the digital movies are a lot better than the VHS ones (Also smaller cameras wich is a plus for travelers).
Good luck!