I too dont like direct on camera flash. I usually bounce off the roof or a wall. Figured it was time to up my game and imagination a little bit. The 580 is most likely the way to go though. Now just have to pick up a couple of extra days or have a solid day of scenic tours to up the tip jar!
I did pick up the gary fong collapsible package and have been experimenting... It never ceases to amaze me what you can do with a little creativity and a camera
We'll see what happens when I pop in at my local camera shop