Matt, the 18-200 VR DX lens is about a perfect work-horse do-it-all lens. This was my only lens on my Nikon D50 intro-level DSLR for over two years and it is a great lens. Do a search on this board for Belize and go to my trip report – all the pictures are taken with my 18-200 lens. Also, go here to read a review http://www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/18200.htm.
You will not regret the purchase of the 18-200 in any way. This is still the lens I have on my camera body most often and it is one of two lenses my wife will use (she loves the 18-200).
Just one nit-picky thing to remember – the 18-200 is a Dx lens so it will only work on Dx cameras and not Fx (full frame) but that is pretty niche stuff since most people will never buy a super expensive Fx camera for amateur photography.
Some examples Nikon 18-200 VR



