When in doubt play like a hardcore character. I have played 1.10 a few times and in normal it wasnt any harder than 1.09, but I have not tried to go to nm or hell. :ph34r:
I'd suggest hardcore tactics you if you doubt your ability to survive until you feel comfortable. I play harcore in 1.09 and it is not uncommon for me to enter hell at level 70 or higher just to be safe.
As for gaining exp you should most likely try doing nm Baal runs, I remember it helping me get exp fairly well also many of the caverns in act 5 have good exp. Dont know if this helps you, but it may.
Good luck on your ventures
Edit: typos fixed
I'd suggest hardcore tactics you if you doubt your ability to survive until you feel comfortable. I play harcore in 1.09 and it is not uncommon for me to enter hell at level 70 or higher just to be safe.
As for gaining exp you should most likely try doing nm Baal runs, I remember it helping me get exp fairly well also many of the caverns in act 5 have good exp. Dont know if this helps you, but it may.
Good luck on your ventures
Edit: typos fixed