If you like the G15 so much why not buy a mint low shutter count used one and take your chances?

RAW only shoots in colour. If you shoot in both RAW and JPEG and choose monochrome on the camera the RAW file will be in colour.

There are multiple aspects to this, among which are:

(1) The moral of the tale, which applies to all forms of modern technology, is 'Don't look at a camera/computer magazine the day after you buy a new camera/computer' you'll see something that makes you regret making your purchase when you did!

(2) I own an Olympus OMD EM1 Mk 1 which is a very good camera by any reckoning; now it's been superseded and somehow I feel deprived because of the enhanced spec but I can't justify or even afford to go for the Mark 2. However I doubt whether not having the latest version will actually make much difference to me or to my photography so I suppose I just need to get on with life. Do you know what? I also own an Olympus Stylus 1s; it's lighter, easier to use but very controllable, looks like a smaller version of the EM1, doesn't require me to change lenses and produces images which easily stand comparison with the EM1 and other much more expensive gear. Why do I bother? You tell me! But watch out if I win the Lottery..........

The only way to avoid mistakes is to check the user guide

I agree; Pentax 110 don't have aperture as far as I am aware.

Olympus Stylus 1S in Super Macro Mode

Sounds like a good doorstop to me (I have acquired several, of different makes, over the years whilst pursuing my dream of a good macro lens - I gave up in the end and invested in modern stuff). http://www.worthpoint.com/worthopedia/vintage-luxcon-auto-zoom-lens-35-200-415004732

I think it's a good system, less fiddly than Manfrotto but Arca originals are expensive. Try Ebay for clones including plates and camera specific L plates (mostly from China or nearby!).

If you want a truly pocketable travel camera try a Panasonic DMC-ZS60 (TZ80 outside US). Full controllable, shoots in RAW, 30x zoom.

Model A De Luxe Roadster 1930/31?
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_Model_A_(1927%E2%80%9331)#/media/File:Ford_A_de_Luxe_Roadster_blue_vrd.jpg

The arguments for and against are manyfold and diverse. See:
http://www.outdoorphotographer.com/tips-techniques/photo-editing-tips/raw-vs-jpg/
http://photographyconcentrate.com/10-reasons-why-you-should-be-shooting-raw/
https://photographylife.com/raw-vs-jpeg

To name but a few, but don't expect a definitive answer!!

Panasonic TZ60 (ZS40), TZ70 (ZS50) or TZ80 (ZS60); excellent compacts, fully controllable, big zoom and can shoot in RAW. TZ100 (ZS100) is latest incarnation ; very good but doesn't have the big zoom

One of the best travel cameras is the Panasonic Lumix TZ80 - 30x zoom, use the rear screen or the viewfinder, fully controllable or straightforward point and shoot - very pocketable, small and light - your choice.