I just bought a Canon T2i a few months ago with the standard 18-55mm lens. In my dream world though, and for my expedition, I'd have the 18-55, a 22-135 (might have the first number wrong on that but it's around there), and a 55-250. Ideally all of these would be from Canon's EF line, not the EF-S. I would probably also get a few fixed-frame wide-angle lenses (so maybe a 12mm and a 14mm. Eh, throw a 16 in there too for the heck of it). I would also upgrade my camera to the 7 because even though most of the features between the cameras are the same the 7 is much sturdier. So yeah, that would be it.

depends on how long you are going. you could consider renting the gear, with insurance. you get to play with lots of really great glass, without anywhere near the expense of purchasing. lensrental.com, etc.

If size doesn't matter (and we all know that it does), I'd go with an SLR, but if you don't want to be bogged down with a bag full of lenses. We bought a Canon Elf and it takes great pictures and you can keep it in your pocket.