Tips for a good SLR camera, any suggestions?

Merry Christmas first off.

Now down to the question. I was supposed to be getting a Nikon D3100 SLR camera for my birthday but it hasn't happened. And there was one at a brilliant price but now they're all gone. Now, I can wait and see if they come in (so any reviews of the Nikon would be great) OR! I can get a different model.

And that's where you guys come in! This will be my first SLR but I want it to be good so it will last me for ages. The Nikon D3100 has video, which is an advantage but by no means a deal breaker. So fire ahead with suggestions! Tell me what experience you've had with various makes, what you know to be good/bad, what to look out for.

Thanks.

Added (1). Just want to add, that price is somewhat of an issue. I would like it to be under €500 if at all possible?

Sure the D3100 is a well built camera but if you want one that you won't outgrow, avoid getting an entry-level model.

I suggest a Pentax K-r with two kit lenses. The good? It offers more for value for the money. The bad? It's not a popular brand.

I got the nikon d3100 with vr lens for my birthday, and although I'm not a professional, its a great camera, with many features and good value for money. Very reliable camera with good long lasting battery. Simple and easy to use and is very good quality! I'd personally go for the nikon!

Most makes will give acceptable results what makes a difference is that the system you buy into will normally dictate your future camera use because as you grow into your photography you will buy lenses for your camera, then filters which might not be interchangeable.
I suggest you go to the camera shop and try out not only those within your price range but the top of the range models as well as that is what you will be aiming for