If I have to do it all over again with a healthy budget of $1600, these would be what I would look at:
1. Pentax K-x
2. Sony Alpha A500/A550
Why? You have in-built image stabilizers on the camera already, thus saving the $$$ for cheaper lenses.
Also, with kit lenses, the Pentax, AFAIK, with 18-55 & 55-300, would only be about $1400 (Please correct me as I'm not up-to-date with the latest prices), and you can have the $200 for other gadget/items you need.
I'm using Canon 500D, although I have no regrets, I find the wide variety of lenses very tempting to get me into the BBB virus. So, I just rent them whenever I need. But if you want to buy into a system for life, Canon and Nikon are two good reputable brands.
What you need to do, as I'm guessing you are a lady, is to try out the various cameras with the various lenses on it, kit, telezoom, and feel the weight and comfort of fit. End of the day, ergonomics of the camera do play a large part if you are walking about town/overseas taking shots and don't want your fingers to cramp because of the weight of the camera.
One last shot - DON'T BUY FROM IT SHOWS, as you don't save any money at all, you'll be paying at RECOMMENDED RETAIL PRICE of the brand. If you buy at the shops, you will find you will get a better bargain, i.e., lower pricing (not hundreds of dollars, but in $xx) and may get better quality freebies at times. Or if you don't want the freebies, go use the savings for quality filters/tripods/batteries/cleaning kit/bag & carrier/dry cabinet, etc. (although not necessarily in that order depending on what is your priority, but dry cabinet is a must to ensure your investment lasts).
HTH.
Cheers!
Ding