Its a great all around walkabout lens. If you had to travel with just one - it would be that. I started with the 18-200VR back in my D90 days and enjoyed it immensely.
If you're into video a good Prime lens will be awesome, either the 35 or 50mm f1.4.. they are gorgeous for low-light applications as well. The 50mm is well within your budget but the new 35mm is about $1,600.
Logically after that you'll want to move onto the Holy Trinity, Hebrew Trinity, 3 Ninjas of lenses: 14-24 f2.8, 24-70 f2.8, and 70-200 f2.8. They are quite expensive but worth every penny if your photography hobby gets more serious. Maybe next year's birthday
