Replying to So I'm looking to get into photography

So I figured I'd start out with a camera, hey, sounded like a good idea at the time, then I realized I didnt have a clue, so here it goes:

I'm a noob to photography, but I can and will learn. I need a camera that will allow me to produce a good looking shot reltivley easily, but something that wont hold me back when I start to figure out what I'm doing. Its for general use, anything from skiing to crazy close ups to scenery. Advise? How much should I be looking/expecting to spend to get a good camera, and what should I start out with in terms of lenses?