I usually have 48 hours turn but I alos are starting to feel a bit pressed. So as I started in CaptRR's proportion game I hoped no one would reply to this
But 72 hours could be fine as it will be a long game.
As to more than one ally.
That opens up the possibility of chained alliances where You practicly see the entire map by allying yourself with someone who is allied to someone who is... and that takes away alot of the fun of exploring I think. Or not?