I had a Canon 1100D and just sold it...not because I didn't like it, just because I wasn't using it enough!
Anyway, I absolutely loved it. I did A LOT of research looking for my first DSLR, looked at several Nikons and other Canons but felt the 1100D was exactly what I was after as a 'beginner'.
It's really nice to hold, gives you a summary of what each setting does, and I think I got a bundle including absolutely everything I needed for around £280!
We took it on holiday to Cornwall and it took such fantastic piccies!