Thanks all, good tips. I have just started a new character as suggested. Still can't stop myself from choosing Mesmer (!) but apparently it's in vogue nowadays? I remember really struggling to get into parties, everybody hated Mes back in the day.
Good tip on Zaishen quests, I think they are a new (!) addition.
Pre-searing does have a decent amount of people - you're right. I think I was just disheartened by an empty Ascalon city and ToA on European servers...
Finally, those miniatures are really pesky inventory fillers. I got 3 gold: miniature Shiro, Flame Djinn (looks pretty cool) and a White Rabbit. Worth much? (sorry, I know this is slightly off-topic) but might help me realistically achieve that Obby armour one day!