There used to be some very brief info about the in-game area online, but it looks like that page isn't currently available.
Cymryc will certainly want to give you all of the appropriate info, when he has a chance. Unfortunately, according to the prior thread, he won't be answering anybody until at least Sunday evening.
Welcome on board,
Doug C
(IG: "Chicken Leg" Jack)
P.S. If at all possible, write your character's history before your first event. It gives your character (and more importantly, you) something to talk about in the tavern, and your roleplay options are going to be much greater.