Like Chuck, I've been reading this with interest. When I learned to fly, up in Alaska a long time ago, a basic whiskey compass and keeping the view from the windshield looking like the map was the primary method of VFR nav. Electronics-wise there was the four course low freq range which required only a receiver and a good set of ears. An ADF receiver was a real plus - they pointed where you needed to go. VOR nav required nose-bleed altitudes, not good for VFR. So when GPS came along, it was considered a gift. So much accurate information on stuff I formerly guessed at. Looking out was still primary but knowing that what you saw was what you planned was very reassuring. You people in the EU have it made. There's a town every ten minutes with rivers, railroads and highways everywhere. The GPS confirms your navigation, probably reduces your time enroute by helping you fly a more accurate course thus saving a few euros, pounds or what on fuel.