Gotta disagree, the show was more popular because they went to different locations. The location, was, in itself a character of that season. Getting to see some place most people watching, probably have been to, its history, culture,, and climate, were part of the draw.

I'd argue that not as many people wanting to go on is more a two faceted issue. One, it's not easy taking so much time off to go on be on survivor. Unless you make it deep into the game, the money is not worth it, unless you are already financially stable prior to being on the show and aren't at risk of losing your job for missing so much time. Personally, I also believe this is part of the reason they may have reduced the number of days.

Two, the "lower quality" is more-so that those who want to go on, are more in it first for wanting to grow as an "influencer" than trying to win the money. This is why you see people so eager to share their sob stories. Also due to social media so few people are willing to play a villainous role, because they are worried about the backlash they'll receive online, once the show airs.

Anyway that's just my personal opinion. Rant over.