I actually did a round though FF9 two weeks ago, here are some fresh tips.
Spoilers here are minimal, it knowing these things wont ruin anything for you.

If you didn't already know:

Take Quina to the Iifa Tree and have her eat that big dragon thing that has lvl5 death, then go to that place where the moogles take the kupo nuts and say "its not safe out there" in Gizamaluke's Grotto. There is a monster up there called the "grand dragon" It is lvl 60. gives you about 8000 exp, lots of gil, and the Grand Dragon cards are VERY helpful for building your collection thoughout the whole game (especially handy durring the tourniment), also if your into using Freya you can max out her (future)Dragon Crest abilty here (stronger based on dragons you kill, it will always do 9999, assuming you get her to around lvl 50 using this method.). Assuming your around lvl 20 when you start this, it will take you about 1 hour or so to one party to lvl 50 or so. I spent out 4 game hours here to get EVERYONE around 55-60. I reccoment killing Zidane before you do this. if you plan the lvl up everyone. also don't forget to turn on Quina's "Millionaire"and everyones "level up" ability.

Also, durring the card tourniment. DURRING the tourniment, between matches, go back to Dali and get the coffee there, THIS IS THE ONLY TIME IN THE GAME YOU CAN GET IT.

Also, dont ignore to choco forrests, you can find lots fo good items and gil there.

Make sure you steal the Fearie flute from the golem thing after you get Eiko for the first time. You can't buy/synth this weapon until MUCH later.