I agree with the OP. Part of what made FFXI one of the most memorable experiences i've had was how the world really draws you in and *feels* like a world, as opposed to just some textured hallways and swirly instance portals. In all sorts of zones there were clickys and pressure plates and switches that opened new passageways. One of my favorites was the ruin full of Tonberrys in Yutunga(or Yhoator, its been a while) Jungle where just to get around you needed to kill certain mobs for a drop and then use that drop on a secret wall or what have you. It didn't feel like a "bunch of rooms with a jungle themed texture applied to the walls," it *FELT* like an old ruin.

Altepa Desert and the Quicksand Caves was another good one, with multiple entrances and multiple uses and both zones being so intertwined, it made it feel that much more like a real world.

You have the talent and the means, give the world builders the freedom and encouragement to do it right a second time!