Low N Slow
This is my call - hope it helps. It looks like a lot of words on paper, but if spoken clearly and without hesitation it is quite fast to say:
"(Controlled Airfield station name), G-ABCD, (Aircraft type), VFR arrival from (aerodrome), at (Reporting point or position), at X feet (altitude or height as appropriate) request joining instructions for your (air)field." You can add ETA to the field or ETE to a zone if appropriate.
I find that this call is understood well and have used it in several counries.
Your point about "inbound" being confused with a procedure is a good one. I have heard this happen at Southend Aiport with two aircraft with a similar call sign.
[ 06 August 2001: Message edited by: Final 3 Greens ]