The cameras you are interested in are not much different to what you already have, because the "engine" that powers them is not much different than the one in your Sony. By that I mean the digital imaging sensor is roughly the same size. So in essence, cameras like the SX40 and P500 are just jazzed-up point and shoot cameras.
I am not familiar with how the switching for the viewfinder and LCD is done on those particular cameras, but even if it requires pushing an extra button to review, it is not something to be confused about; it certainly would not be a problem.
Both the SX40 and P500 have been professionally reviewed and give good reviews. Other similar contenders are the Panasonic FZ150 and Sony HX100.
I have a small Sony 5.1 mp, 3x zoom. I want a new digital camera with more zoom, as we travel and I love taking pictures of scenery, flowers, animals, etc. I really want a camera with a viewfinder as well as the LCD screen. I have looked at the Canon SX40HS and the Nikon P500--they have all the things I want, but I am afraid they are "too much camera" for me. I am not a professional and really prefer to "point and shoot". Also I read that the Canon (and possibly the Nikon)'s LCD screen must be turned off if I use the Viewfinder (and vice-versa). Is that a problem if I want to review the picture I just took? I am really confused and would appreciate any help--about the two cameras I mentioned or others you might recommend. Thanks.

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