I agree. There is a lot of generally good natured jabs between those that ride aluminum touring bikes and those that like steel bikes. Both materials have served well for a zillion miles of service.

A good touring bike is one that will dependably handle rider weight, the touring load, and a variety of road or path surfaces... For every inch of your tour. There is a lot of planning and bicycle preventave maintenance that also is part of a successful tour.

I have a pair of Cannondale touring bikes. I've reduced my loads to the point of being able to use a road bike in some situations. Generically an expedition level touring bike will cover all aspects of touring excepting hard core off road situations, but there are designs for that touring style as well.

If the OP clues us in a little better as to their touring plans WRT to weight to be carried, typical riding condition, and forth we can offer better suggestions. At the moment the big three are the Fuji Touring, Trek 520, and the Surly LHT.

Brad