I prefer rp'ing by creating stories or with others on the forums. I hate in game roleplay as too many people interrupt or meta game/power game that essentially makes a giant face palm.

 

Mcmmo and the economy do not affect roleplay in the least.

 

In terms of a new area, add more interesting dynamic pieces to explore in current cities. For example, instead of building a blimp over Silveredge, build a blimp that is on fire or blowing up.  Instead of some stark stone statues, have the statues fighting in an everlasting frozen battle with a cool story and place to explore to back that up.