I bought my Sony A290 five months ago, and I’ve been using it regularly since. For starters, it must be said it’s really easy to handle for most things. The usual complaint I’ve read about the grip being too small for large hands seems to be unfounded - sure, you don’t have a lot of legroom, but compared to a superzoom like the Panasonic FZ38 or the Fuji S1800, the Alpha has more than enough to spare.
And the camera’s as light as a feather, even when compared to a Rebel XTi, much less an EOS or a D40 which, it must be said, makes it great to take quick shots(you can for instance sling it to capture a passing bird, whereas I’d be afraid to do as much with a heavier DSLR). Still, it’s not that light, and so not really suited to one-handed shooting unless you have excellent pulse.
If you’re getting your first DSLR, this is a very good option to consider.