I'm a nikon fan so I'm a bit biased
Previously had a Konika minolta (which are now sony) but are backwards compatible, so you might want to look at ebay or other places for
second hand lenses. Picked up a 24mm f2.8 on there for 30ukp a few years ago.
Anyways, I'd look at a Nikon D80. one on ebay atm going for 260ukp ish with kit lens. Reason is the mega pixels are a little more than the d70, and it still has a motor so can drive the older af lenses (the more entry level cameras don't have the motors and if you truely like taking pictures you will want something with a motor in).
A 50mm f1.8 new will set you back 100ukp, might be some
second hand on these forums under the for trade/sale sections.
I can recommend:
105mm nikkon macro, 11-16 tokina, 50mm f1.4d nikon, 30mm sigma f1.4 as I have used or own these lenses.
It will depend what you want to take pics of, people, places, big things, small things, animals/birds... Have a browse through the forum sections below as they can give you an idea.
If you have a camera now (even a small one or a camera phone) what do you try to take most pictures of? Landscapes? ***? Cars?
That will point you towards lenses. Also get a few magazines as they have ideas and inspiration. Also sometimes they review the cameras/lenses you may be interested in.
If you happen to know anyone who has these dslrs it might be worth taking an afternoon or morning and borrowing it (with the owners tagging along) to see whether you'd prefer lighter models, which lenses you'd like etc...
Mainly its up to you, but dont let the sales people push you around. Go in and handle as many models as you can, even some of the mid pro ones. You never know, if your pictures are great you may be able to afford one at some point!
For budget and starting cameras you may want to look at a sony or pentax. The only problem is getting hold of decent lenses. Research on ebay and watch a few items go through. It will give you an idea of how much people are paying/asking for the items.
When you have a bit of money available, you can either:
1) Hire a camera/lens
2) post on here and get comments to research
3) buy one, use it and post up on here whether you like it, etc...
Good luck and I hope you find something that fits your style