doesn't matter what type of internet you use, or the fct that your paying on the PS2. All that really matters is the updating, if you have hi speed internet it'll take less time to download the updates and installing the video game. If you have dial-up it'll take longer.

San'Doria is a good place to start, plus with the fact that it's probably one of the easiest starting places to do quests and get quick gil.

And for the fact that all of the character's are pixels (Omg!!! no way!!!!) it doesn't really matter what you choose. Just a side note that some players might come up to you and say

"ASL?!?!?!"

or

"Wanna cyber?"

^^ hope that helps.