I started un-jaded then I came to the same conclusion as you two. I kept going though and I'm changing my mind again - the world is not all the same, and there is plenty of opportunity for adventure. Maybe I'll change my mind again, I don't know everything either, but I hope I don't.
I don't know exactly what you guys did or didn't do, but my advice would be to adjust your strategy for where you spend time, and push yourself to pay closer attention. Maybe learn another language if you haven't already so you can really dive in.
What keeps it fresh is the unique aspects of the country/state... language, culture/history, sightseeing, etc. I spent time in Japan recently and was far more influenced by experiencing the rural way of life than Tokyo. I like to take the best parts of a country and integrate those habits/attitudes into my own life.
Traveling around also makes you realize how (generally) blessed we are in the US, at least compared to all the complaining people do.
I thought this nothing more than a trite saying, for the longest time. But over time I've come to realize how universal and potently applicable this maxim really is.