I hope this won't be taken as 'thread creep'. What about visual apps? Sure you can do 'em autos in or out or FD on/off. Great practice tho and an excellent chance to get rid of the AP and the FD for the most interesting bit of the sector.
Seeing my fellow pilots around Europe leads me to conclude that for many a 'visual' is something to avoid; whether it's laziness, lack of confidence, company procedures or lack of hand flying skill or maybe a combination of these thats to blame I know not.
But.
1. It can save time
2. It can save fuel
3. It helps prevent queues building up.
4. Keeps your hand flying skills sharper
5. Makes you think out your own approach instead of relying on ATC
6. It's fun!
Of course not a go-er everywhere but still possible often and at some airports more than others.