Leadfingers, I'm no expert on what's out there in the market. I did the least bit of online research before my trip, mostly to see what was available in the store I planned to visit (Long & McQuade, a country-wide chain.) Perhaps I lucked out. The Epiphone is very playable. Low action and easy on the fingers. The only negatives are (1) there was a bit of buzz when I put a capo on the 4th fret and strummed enthusiastically (while going head to head with an amplified Strat) and (2) the sound itself is a bit thin, without much depth. I think that once I get it home (after my trip to the US), have it set up properly and take the time to play it regularly, it should warm up. $129 is around here is not a lot of money. It gets me 2 tanks of gas. The guitar is worth keeping for the price - and may be perfect for my grandson when he gets big enough to hold it.

I should note that I do agree with advice from other posters to beginners - do take an experienced guitar players with you if you can and consider good used guitars that might be available for a reasonable price.