As far as traps go, instead of investing a point in trap detection, I prefer to just use my doll to scout out trapped areas. Traps dont' seem to be thrown about all over ina game.. just in certain areas. Once you get to one of these it only takes a few minutes (mostly waiting for your doll to resummon after dying to a trap) to clear out a room or corridor.
I kind of agree with you on the dungeon thing. I hope that later acts are more open. I had really liked that aspect of divine divinity.
