I own a Squire Stratocaster and would like to upgrade to a nicer guitar I would like to spend less then $500.
I have my eye on a Standard Stratocaster Hss. What would you recommend?

Squire or any copy brand i.e Harley Benton or encore etc. Do remember though that you want one that will last a while as well but is still cheap. Order it online. If you're from Europe use www.thomann.de or if your american use www.samash.com