I don't think you dislike "levels" what you dislike is the pace, level-curve and itemization.
and I agree with you, I HATE these three in every MMORPG released post WoW.
Because the level-curve is so fast there's really no point in investing time on gear. Since reaching max level is pretty easy and fast everything else before max level is just a waste since it's going to be substituted very fast anyway.
Itemization in WoW and beyond became ridiculous. The green items dropping like candy, not only gives you an annoying time micromanaging your bag, it actually takes out the excitement of finding new gear. Why do trash mobs drop gears that may upgrade your current one?? (unless you're just starting out). Trash mobs should NEVER drop good gear. Also, remove this "World Item Table" bullshit from any game. Items should be relative to the named/boss NPC's item table and unique to them.
Pace of games is so fast that you really don't get a chance to relax. "You must level up to max", "You must deliver this quest", "Do this dungeon here, it's just one click away.". This just move too fast and too many things happening at the same time and your quest journal is usually 30/30 already and will never decrease... damn.
I say make leveling slower, much slower and make worthwhile items dropped by bosses/nameds and these items are unique to them (it should make sense Lore-Wise). This will make every level worthwhile because items will stay for weeks if not month which would help you during your journey and won't be a waste of investment. Slow down the pace of the game, let us just take a breath and talk to each other for crying out loud.