Noob here, Need some advice

Hi all, I am looking to get a Goldwing and I'd like some advice from the folks on this board. I've ridden bikes for many years, I started out riding dirt bikes when I was 5. I graduated to street bikes when I turned 16 and my dad bought me a Yamaha special 400. When a friend totaled it I bought a 700 Virago and my dad had a 1200 Venture. I rode his bike a few times and loved the feel of the big cushy thing. I now have an 06 V-Star. I bought it thinking my wife would never throw a leg across it after scaring her for life with the Virago I had years ago. Well she surprised me by asking to go for a ride. She fell in love with riding but not with the little Pillion pad that is supposed to be for her. So now I'm in the market for a bigger bike. I've always like the look of a Goldwing and I've heard so many people say that it is the only way to go for a touring bike. So, with that in mind what say you? What should I look for, I'm selling the Yamaha and using the funds towards the Goldwing. I'm guessing the budget will be somewhere south of $7000. Thanks in advance.