In that case, I would want something with drop bars because it has more hand positions. So much of this is just preference! Don't worry about other groups or cliques...just do what you want. At the end of the day, they're just bikes. For what you describe, I'd want something versatile...I like my sports tourer suggestion above...the 80s Japanese stuff. There are modern bikes that are similar with more modern parts - like Surly - but I prefer the older stuff because I prefer the aesthetics, it's cheaper and they hold value.

The most important part is that it fits well and that the contact points are comfortable. If you're riding that much you're going to learn from experience and change everything as you go anyway. Get a starting point and enjoy the journey! If you're handy with restoration, or have access to a decent shop, I'd get an 80s Japanese sports bike. Other stuff would work - a cyclocross bike is versatile, reasonably quick and fun. Less rear chain stay for the rack. I'm also a fan of taking rigid MTBs and converting them to drop bar commuters.