Of course, the quickest, least expensive and easiest kayaks to build are skin on frame. Though they don't have the visual aesthetic of a well done woodstrip kayak, they are tough to beat in many ways, and they go together so fast and inexpensively that you can make a whole pile of them.
I recommend checking out Tom Yost's site for many free designs and a well illustrated online building guide. His Sea Tour EXP line might be right up your alley for touring, and I also recommend his Sea Rider and Roldarka designs for general use (all with wooden frames, not folders).
www.yostwerks.com
There are lots of traditional SOF kayaks out there, too. Try qajaqusa.org for a good start.
Good luck with whatever you choose!
Dave
Oh - I grew up in Knoxville, and still have family there.