How far along am I?

[jujuawake]

I am currently level 34 and it feels like I've explored a good chunk of the map. I thought 50 was kind of "end game" but from what I've read on forums and chat, 50 seems to be just the beginning? And there are a lot of "i levels" (items?) and quests associated with those? So once I hit 50 is there still lots of story and lots of world exploring to do, or am I getting close to having explored the map aside from HW content?

[Flaeb]

Lots of story to do at 50, then you can eventually make your way to heavenward. I dont know your playstyle, but you got a chunk of content to do. Ranging from a week to a few weeks.

[Chihaya]

Still got awhile to go, don't be too worried about ilevel - you will get your job quest for a free set of gear at 45 and 50 - then the main scenario quest gears you up pretty well for your first class/job. Just keep following the story - and it will take you to more places to explored all the way into HW

[WinterLuna]

You still have a long way to go, 50 is only the beginning! and once you get to 50 (60 now really) you will start to upgrade your gear by il which means item level as opposed to just higher level gear.

[jujuawake]

Okay, cool! Exploration is my favorite. Thanks! =)

[Xaela]

Isn't it great? This game always has so many different things to do, no wonder I'm actually enjoying leveling up!

[Gyson]

My advice to anyone new: Don't worry about the expansion zones. Don't give them any more thought than you would of any other zone X levels down the line. Ultimately it's just more of the same game you're already enjoying, and it's silly to race past one perfectly enjoyable part of it just to reach another equally enjoyable part. Rushing to the end is like scarfing down a really good meal and then being sad when there's nothing left but crumbs on your plate.