So I am leaving for SA in August for 1 year. I want the dSLR, and I really like Nikon. I am leaning toward the D40, because of weight, and I am still relatively an amatuer at photography. My question is more in regards to the lens. Is the 18mm - 200mm worth the >$200, I have the option of various packages with different lens. So do I carry one or two lenses? and if one,
18-55
70-200
18-200
??? thanks for any input....

[title edited for clarity by JessieS]

Wanted to make sure you saw that Nikon just announced the D40x - an upgrade to the D40. They upgraded the sensor to 10 megapixels, lowered the ISO sensitivity to 100, and slightly increased the continuous shooting rate. These are all good things, but it also means you'll get a good deal on the regular D40 soon, which is still a great camera.

As for the lens - the 18-200 VR is wonderful. I still haven't been able to get my hands on one, but I've used my friend's and love it. I think it's the ultimate travel lens for going lightweight, but having the functionality of several lenses. The VR really helps for low light shots too. I was really impressed with it. If you can afford it, get it.

If you can't afford it, I'd get the kit with the 18-135mm lens. I like to travel light, so I almost always only bring one lens.