In any game I always go for all the XP I can get ALWAYS. When I finish the Aleroth Dungeons, I kill all the orcs around the town before even going to the Farmlands and the Poor Quarter. That way, you get the levels you need before tackling the areas that would turn you to a pile of mush instantly.
I enjoy every single creature and battle. Skipping is something I never do unless I'm playing around with the game after having done it "correctly" the first time. Then I mess around a bit to see what happens. But in general, skipping to things and areas too fast is not a good idea.
I also tend to read some general spoiler-free reviews to see what landmines to avoid.
Good luck! This really is a fun and addictive game.
