You shouldn't be paying much more for the 700C wheels, there are identical component wheels for touring bikes, same rims spokes and hubs.

Concept for 26 inch wheels was same diameter with a 2" tire as the 700c with racing skins on it. So in a sense they thought 700c was the right diameter. I have ridden a lot on 26 inch with 1.5s, and I think it is a great option, but then the MTB dudes burst a vessel and get all trendy on running the big tires on 700c (29er). Only thing I can get excited about is that smaller wheels can have less compromise on smaller frames, other than that it is anyone's guess.

As far as parts replacement is concerned, all touring gear is a relative nightmare. If you really want to run the stuff you started with you need to carry the spares. They may have 26 incher gear overseas, getting a rim or tire replaced on the spot is a long shot. If you are really going off track you can carry folding tires, and you can even stash a rim in pieces.