I guess I'll be the odd one here and say that I opt for one 'type' of lens based on where I'm going. I've yet to go on a trip, anywhere in the world, where I take every lens I own - to include the widest lenses, and the longest as well.

Over time, it dawns on many photographers that they 'see' a certain way: some are more drawn to wide vistas, some are obsessed with flowers, and others are primarily interested in wildlife that cannot be approached very close.

A good friend of mine is a professional photographer and rarely shoots with any lenses wider than 85mm, he just 'sees' the world through much longer glass. On the other hand, I've paid all my bills with a camera for the past 25 years and 90% of all of my photos are with lenses wider than 24mm. In reality, I'd be just fine (from the mortgage companies viewpoint) with a 16-35mm lens. Then again, from time to time that might not suit everyone so I understand the desire of many to have more options.