Is there a forum for basic strategy tips?

I have been playing this game for over a month, and am getting to the point to give up. I play a lot of 4X games. I can win at any level at Moo2, but CANNOT figure this game out ( I know this game is not Moo2 but I only say that to demonstrate I am not new to 4X games). I play Gal-Civ on beginner level, but get exterminated after about 20 minutes. I try everything -- trade, diplomacy, giving gifts, and after a while EVERY race has declared war against me. and 1-minute later I have dozens of ships bombarding my planets. I try to build ships but am ALWAYS about century behind in tech (even when I play creative and research oriented race).

What is the secret to this game? Am I missing something essential and trying to play this game too much like Moo2? and is there a forum to talk basic strategy for beginners?

Thanks!!!!!