Nikon 16-85 VR lens

Hello all,

Im about to do a year in South America with my D70. I just sold the crappy "do it all" Tamron 18-200 that i had. it lacked sharpness and contrast. Im going to keep my 35mm f2 because its great for low light and super compact.

Im thinking of getting Nikons new 16-85 VRII lens. Anybody have experience with it? recommend something else for similar price? I like that it has a decent focal range, goes pretty wide, and has VR.

i have thought about getting the 18-200 vr as well but i prefer the slightly wider angle of the 16-85 and dont tend to use the telephoto end of the lens.