#1 Just pick an NA server that says Excellent for connection. If you scroll down the list, at the bottom you'll find the newest servers. They tend to be the least populated which means the fewest login or character creation restrictions.

#2 Crafting I would not start until around level 20. You could take up Mining and Botany earlier, but your bag will fill up fast. Around level 20 you get retainers, on which you can store items. That's when you want to start crafting. If you take up Mining or Botany, you can't go wrong with ores and lumber as a rule. As well as shards, though the exp for shards will be bad. However, you'll need a lot of them.

Once you unlock other crafts, you'll see recipes. You can then check your logs and other craft recipes to see how to get materials you need. You'll often be able to farm/craft the items you need. But you will always need shards and storage space.

#3 I'm afraid I can't help you. I'm on PS3.