Tactics for the Stronghold.

I think it's foolish to invest 200% in fast-producing bird units. I initially build Orcs (and later upgrade them to elite units) and can easily clear most of the map. Of course, I try to avoid attacking archers. After that, I build a Town Hall and start producing bird units and Ogres. Then, after building a Capitol, I upgrade the Ogres and gather the first four levels, and if I have enough, I also gather bird units. This leads to a massive clearing of the map. If I'm lucky with crystals, I'll get Cyclops. After 5-6 Cyclops, I try to save up for the Cyclops upgrade, and only then do I build Cyclops. There's no denying that Cyclops are strong, but they are too expensive; not everyone has 20 crystals in their pocket.
For heroes, I pick Terek (I used to pick Crag and Dessa) for a more challenging game. Of course, I don't even look at diplomacy.