I'm looking at buying a digital camcorder for my Dad and can use some advice.

I'm currently looking at the Samsung VP-D361i Mini DV Camcorder: http://www.pixmania.co.uk/uk/uk/277463/art/samsung/minidv-vp-d361.html#avisconso, it has the follows specs:

Code:
CCD sensor (in pixels): CCD 1/63 captor with 800.000 pixels
Viewfinder: Colour viewfinder 0,3" - 123.000 pixels 
LCD Screen: LCD screen 2.5", 90° + mirror mode rotation 
Optical Zoom: x33 
Digital Zoom:  x1200 
Image Stabiliser: DIS image stabiliser 
Focus: Auto and manual  
Sound: PCM Stereo, Audio doubling, Wind break 
Audio In/Out: Yes
DV Out ( IEEE1394, FireWire): Yes
Computer Interface: FireWire (IEEE 1394)  
Included accessories: Li-on rechzrgeable battery SB-LSM80, Mini jack cord, strat 1 lithium battery 
Weight (in grams): 430 
Dimensions 52,5 x 93 x 104,6 mm 
Other Functions: Photo mode
Function settings AE: auto, sports, portraits, high speeds, spot, Snow, sand.
Special effects D.S.E: art, mosaïque, relief, miroir, pastel, sepia, negative, B&W
Background daylight compensation
Is this a good buy for an entry level camcorder? Main use will be filming his grandchildren and parties etc and to take on holiday (maybe safari).

Speaking to a guy at a camera store he said little separates the Mini DV Camcorders under $800, most are similar and sometimes you're paying extra for the brand name. Warranties I presume are standard 1 year.