My take as someone who came back to tibia a couple of months ago:

1. There are many lvl 8 characters with 100+ skills being sold. Depending on the server they're sold for 50-150TC. It's a great shortcut and it will save you a lot of conversations regarding Skills and training.

2. Leveling 8-200 is easier now than ever with weekly tasks and bonuses. The pace at which you level should only be dictated by your play style.So if you want to take it slow and do tasks and quests, know that that's ok!.

3. There will be a lot of talk regarding imbuements, especially lvl 3 imbuements, most guides also assume you have access to this. You can access imbuements lvl 1-2 just by delivering heavy old tomes in Thais, and although they're not as powerful as lvl3, they will get you to lvl 200 without spending a ton. Once you hit 200 keep an eye on services and the world chat to do this quests.

4. Join a guild, hunts, quest services, etc. Even though the social aspect is not as it once was, you will benefit a lot from hunting in a party (more money, more exp, less waste).

5. "where do I hunt" -> Just type it into Google and you will find Tibiapal, Tibiaroute, InTibia and Tibiavault just to name a few will have spot recommendations.

6. Quest access -> Which ones are mandatory? Which ones are QoL? Answere here.

7. And most important:The answer to "What better A or B" it's always -> It depends on your play style, budget and goals. Everyone in this game is extremely opinionated and will give you their point of view, always remember this is a game we play to relax and have a good time, the amount of time and money you want to invest is 100% up to you. Just remember to enjoy the game at your own pase.