Looking for high quality photos in a small package

Hi - I'm a complete beginner (upgrading from a point and shoot) and am trying to transition into the world of higher quality photography.  My primary motivation for this purchase is travel photography (from day trips to overseas).  My number one priority is image quality - because, really, if I wanted a travel camera that takes just pretty good photos I could stick with a point and shoot.  I do like having the ability to use the camera to document events (weddings, family gatherings, etc) and am interested in utilizing manual control of features like depth of field and macro photography.

I am worried about size for travelling.  I don't want my camera to be a hassle while exploring new places.  The Sony wins by far here.  I also love in camera features like HDR, panorama stitching, and color effects.  Speed is a plus.  All advantages of the Sony.  However I will be giving up a viewfinder (nice but not essential) and in camera flash (seems important, but I'm not sure how much this will be used) both of which are standard in the D5100.

I'll never be an incredibly serious photographer, so lens selection isn't too important.  I can only see myself ever owning a max of 3 lenses (standard, telephoto, and macro).  I am stuck so I very much appreciate your thoughts.