Paloom

Paloom is a location from Final Fantasy II. To reach it, go north from Altair to the lake and east to the walled-in city that is Paloom. Just inside is the ferry to Poft, but don't ignore Paloom: it has an inn and shops like any other town. =Tips for Your First Time Here=

Use the Canoe
If you don't want to fight the random enemies on the way to Paloom, spend as much time on the water as possible. While you are in your canoe, you are exempt from all encounters. Though it retards leveling, it is good way to move quickly and painlessly.

Mindu
Mindu is your first fourth party member (for lack of a better description). He has a lot of White Magic, but its use isn't suggested, because soon you'll be paying a lot at inns if you do. He is strong, but doesn't have good enough equipment yet, so buy him at least a mace.

The Party's Magic
When you need a cure, try as often as possible to have someone other than Mindu perform it. Mindu's spells cost a lot to cast, and you may not want to pay for it at the inn. Also, you want your originally designated white mage to continue to develop in Spirit and Cure levels. =Paloom Shops=

Equipment and Items
Prices are a little steep for the time Paloom is introduced. This can be compensated for with a little "fundraising" in random encounters nearby. You shouldn't worry too much about weapons unless you want to buy a mace for Mindu. Armor and spells here are much more desirable. Copper Plate is good for everyone in your party, and is a very good deal. If you can only afford enough equipment for one character, and you don't want to spend hours in the nearby forest, make sure you prioritize the one that's been casting Cure.

Magic
You should buy Blink, for two reasons: it can help your "white mage" raise his Spirit, and it comes in handy later on when you start fighting heavier-hitters. =Area Encounters= If you take the canoe to Paloom, then immediately the ship to Poft, chances are this doesn't matter. You should think about fighting around the area, however, since you want your characters to be a bit stronger (and have more Gil) when you get to the next few places in the story.