one important aspect is how long Nikon updates camera's software. I have no experience with nikon though, but the most recent model will have more updates
compact format is good for travel, the lightest the better but not at expense of fragile equipement.
Long time ago I had (still have) a Panasonic (Leica lenses, very outdated now) so similar to that nikons. Nowdays my prime camera is a FujiX e2 (five years old!!) but very satisfied with fuji service and quality also.