Try posting in your world forum for a linkshell, that should help some at least for wandering around alone.

For partying I am a 23ARC and the only parties I have been in have been from /shouts in Ul'dah (R20+ though) - have you been there yet? If not I suggest you do, the second party I was invited to was from the same guy who is now my friend on my social list =).

Other than that I am afraid I am not sure, I'm sure some higher ranked people can help some more =>.