Suggestions for first GPS unit

Man, this whole GPS business is really baffling for a newcomer to the
field.

I hike almost every year somewhere or other in Europe; I bike in the
U.S. and it would be nice to have a unit that would give me my speed and
distance after a long ride; and I would like to be able to use the unit
in my car, on long driving trips, to find gas stations, restaurants,
motels, etc.

I can spend up to $800 for a unit; maybe a little more if I
absolutely had to to get the features folks might recommend.

It would be greatly appreciated if any of your folks who read this
would care to steer me in the right direction with suggestions for units
I should consider.

Many thanks,
Bob
.