Canon EOS 300D Zoom lens with Macro facility?

I've just got my 300D and I'm looking into getting a zoom lens with a
macro facilty for it. I believe Canon only do fixed focal length macro
lenses for the 300D; so I'm looking for suggestions from the ranges
provided by Tamron, Vivitar etc. Pointers as to build quality, image
quality and value for money most welcome.

N

 

If you want true macro, you'll have to go with one of many fixed focal
length units available. Almost all zooms that claim to be macro capable are
merely close focusing lenses, and don't remotely approach macro range. By
definition, 'macro' begins at life-size (1X) magnification. Less than
life-size is a reduction in magnification. (.9X and smaller)

 

Canon has 2 options that might help you, close-up filters and
extenstion tubes.

 

I can live with less than 1:1 so a close focusing lens would be fine.

 

The message <cliupr$oq0$1$>

The EF-S 18-55mm kit lens will focus close enough to cover an area of
2.5x1.7 inchs. The performance of this lens is better than than many
realize:

http://www.wlcastleman.com/equip/reviews/20D/index.htm

Cheap build quality
Good image quality when stopped down
Value tremendous