Not all methods of buying bitcoins have that many middlemen. LocalBitcoins is a site that has users in 86 countries and over 400 cities. It's a free to use platform that makes it easier to have face to face meetings and exchange bitcoins and local currencies. It's also way more anonymous than using the exchanges.
I primarily use exchanges but I do use LocalBitcoins as well. It's a good site.
https://localbitcoins.com/Then I have to meet some random person who knows that Ill have a bunch of money on me face to face. That usualy works out well :S
Do it in a public venue; preferably one with free wifi & many distractions, such as a bowling ally at league night. BTW, a bowling ally locker rental is an excellent place (besides a bank safe deposit box) to store important things small enough to put into a bowling bag. It's a good idea to keep some of your backups in a place that would still be accessible in the event of a bank holiday. Even better if you happen to like to bowl.