My recommendation is a steel bike with forgiving geometry and clearance for wider tires. Pay attention to the wheels, considering your weight, you are looking for 32 or more spokes per wheel, ideally butted spokes.

I have a Salsa Vaya and I think that it makes an awesome light touring all-rounder. I rode a Specialized AWOL before that, and I think that it is would be too much of a tank for light touring. My riding friend has a Fargo and also loves it, rides it with 29-er tires and can really float over sandy patches on unpaved roads, where my Vaya with 42mm tires sinks and stops.

When budgeting, don't forget that you'll spend a lot of money on accessories, such as new tires, handlebar bag or some such, perhaps a decent rack, lights, fenders, etc.