Quote Originally Posted by lloydhelen123
But for a year of general travel I also think it wise that I get a more 'all-in-one' lens, with a bit more quality and zoom than my 18-55. After doing my research I've come to the conclusion that my best bet (in my price range) is probably the Canon <s>28-135mm</s>Sorry that should read Canon 18-135mm IS lens.

The EF-S 18-135mm will give you more zoom than your 18-135mm kit lens, but not significantly better image quality. In that price range, you might instead consider the Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8 non-VC lens - you won't get more zoom range than your kit lens, but you'll get a fast constant f/2.8 aperture and much better image quality. If you shoot mostly "buildings, particularly in quite tight urban locations" the 17-50mm range will be good.


As you say, there's no 'right answer'.


Something else to consider would be the Canon 50mm f/1.8 (aka nifty-fifty) - it's an inexpensive lens (the cheapest Canon makes), but it's got a very wide aperture (good for portraits and low light) and very good image quality for the cost (not sure what it goes for over there, but it's US$100 here).


Good luck!


--John


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