I sometimes wonder about using NDB approaches. Believe it or not, many
charter airlines have to rely on NDB's to fly approaches into airports
below VFR. Instrument training is definately challenging but its worth
it if in fact you will use it. The best thing to stay current is
whenever you fly a cross-country, file it as an instrument flight plan
and bring a buddy along with at least a PPC in the same category,
class, etc. as a safety pilot. If its VFR out, great, you have
something besides pilotage to double-check your course and if there's
IMC ahead, then you know you're in the clear because you are already on
the IFR flight plan (excluding, icing, TS or any adverse weather). Even
in VFR, with a safety pilot you can practice Instrument Approaches
under the hood and maintain currency.