No, it doesn't sound like a nightmare. It sounds like your ignition
switch is going out. This is a simple thing to replace and, as many
Vanagon owners know, don't leave home without a spare ignition switch.
The procedure is detailed on www.vanagonauts.com
These ignition switches go for around 7.00 at Bus Depot. I mention
them because I just ordered three (one spare for each of my vans.)
Here is something you might try first though, remove the plastic
cladding from beneath the ignition switch (where the key goes) and you
will see that a plug is plugged into the base of it. Make sure it is
securely plugged in. Also you can jiggle this plug while the heater
fan is running. This might make the fan kick on and off, in which case
this could indicate that the switch is bad, or, as just happened to me
yesterday, the screw that tethers the switch in place is loose (in
which case you will still have to follow the procedure to remove the
switch.) If you don't know when it was last replaced, you should do it
now, because it is destined to fail and you can do it on your own
terms. I've owned a dozen Vanagons and have had to replace this switch
on each one.

Thanks,
                    Miguel
BTW Eventually you will lose the ability to start the van too!