Think I want a touring bike?

Ive always enjoyed the feel of canti brakes (quite a lot of power & mudulation) and theyre adjustability.

I think disc brakes are a little unreliable to use on a touring bike, things like high temperature severely effect braking power. And brake pads are harder to get hold of in the middle of nowhere, especially considering many are model-specific.

Are you serious? A good pair of hydraulics (Shimano Deore above) will work for years without any service, no problems just fantastic modulation and power. Don't need anything harder to get than a multi-tool and some sewing machine oil to re-bleed them and the pads will last for ages. Unless you are riding in an oven you will not be having any problems with heat, might be time you tried disk brakes again they are wicked.