So I'm a long time player of FFXI (5yrs, Remora server) just recently got FFXIV after reading about that the game was improving (and hating SWTOR after waiting 8 months for it). I've been soloing and checking out most of the class's and have decided to go GLA/MRD and switching to PLD when the 1.21 hits. Just hit lvl 20 and I'm starting to have some questions about the gameplay mechanics so here they are...

1. In FFXI you could just "flag" yourself for a party or build one off a list of flagged people, might just be overlooking this but how do I "flag" myself and whats the easiest/fastest way to find a party besides shouting in Ul'dah?

2. Don't understand the "optimal lvl equipment", I know I can equip any armor with a penalty but is the penalty a big hit or am I just missing out on the bonus's this equipment provides?

Thanks for the help in advance