Merry Christmas All!

I have decided to come back to start playing FFXIV few days back.
I have been a final fantasy fan for 10years and hope to join a server with great community and passionate players. Upon reading all the post on the forum I have decided to join "Gilgamesh"

I have just leveled to 9 and did some beginner quest, I'm quite shock that so far I have only seen less then 10 players in the first town. The last time I login there was hundreds of user on every path of the streets

If someone would be kind to enlighten me.
1. Where would all the players be?
2. What level would I need to be to, in order to play with other players?
3. Is there a server where there is more new players?
4. If I want to join a FC that is new player friendly, where should I go and search for or is there recommendation?

Appreciate any help I can get from anyone. Thanks in advance!