It was less convenient, but felt much more authentic. More like you were part of this living world and discovering it, rather than having everything revolve around the player.

Morrowind was much more about discovering what was around you, where Oblivion felt like a series of in-and-outs across the map. IIRC, my recall point was usually the main quest, while everything else was just raw exploration. It was actually fun, too. Possibly what Oblivion would be more like without hand-holding navigation.

I can sympathize with the 'don't waste my time' approach to design. I really can, with less time on my hands these days. Still, it's taking a lot of the magic out of Bethesda's open world titles. There's a thin line between streamlining and dumbing-down. (with consoles being at least part of the reason)