I haven't seen it in posts anywhere, but are there any races which are off limits, or races which are encouraged?

Also looking for any certain weapon types 2H/Bow, 1H/magic, etc..

Play what you like.

Just know that it is a long run from the other racial starter areas to the KGB city once your ready to leave those areas.

Archer and/or Magic focused with melee to back it up once you get into the pit of woe is never going to let you down. Pick your flavor, just focus on an area and skill it up right now so you can be a plus in some area of specialization in the War Groups.

Most of all, have some fun doing it.