I love the open wilderness areas of BG1 and I wish we can have something like that in Eora. Why does each area on the map have to have a specific purpose for the game? Why can't I just stroll around, maybe find some spectacular scenery around. Or maybe some plants that I require tend to be abundant in such regions. Maybe encounter some interesting characters (but without any quests)?
IMO, not everything should be designed as to give you XP and quests or mob encounters.