The packages can sometimes come with rubbish stuff. The memory cards aren't always fast (need Class VI for burst shooting or if you're going to use the HD video) and I've heard lots of horror stories about wide angle and telephoto converters being terrible glass. Not to mention the filters are generally bargain quality. Think about it this way, each piece of glass you put in front of your lens causes some amount of multiplicative degradation in quality. Why put the worst quality glass in front where it'll have the greatest effect?
I ended up paying a bit more for my setup than I would've paid for the eBay type packages by going to my local photo shop, but the peace of mind of knowing I was getting good advice and I'd always have a place to go to get some help really sold it for me. Also, a lot of shops are willing to barter on price if they know they're getting a lifelong customer. My shop was at least able to match the B&H prices on all of my gear and in some cases gave me some extra discounts.
Now, as for lenses, I find the 18-105mm kit lens to be pretty versatile. I also got the 70-200mm telephoto. Right now I'm on a kick of sticking to a 50mm f/1.8 because I love the low-light capabilities, but if not for that, I'd use my 18-105mm lens 90% of the time.
That suggestion is of course based on the assumption that you're not looking to spend a ton of money up front. If you see the lens as an investment and you're willing to drop some dough, I've been drooling over the 24-70mm f/2.8 :-)
Hope that helps.
Edit -- Just saw your price range. I'd suggest the 18-105mm, and a 50mm f/1.8 to get started. Also, VR is great.
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