After looking a bit at the map, here are a couple of thoughts from a strategic perspective.
First, given the high ratio of EP Mansa has on us, it is likely that we are semi isolated in the NE corner of the map. We will know soon enough as the chariot heads west. Also, given that we are #1 in production, by quite a bit, it is likely that everyone has a scarcity of hammer producing options. The map appears to be food rich.
Assuming we are semi-isolated, it is important get to the other AI quickly for more trade options. Mansa has a good 900 beakers on us. Also, we may want a preemptive strike at some point to slow him down and capture the Buddhist holy city, especially if he builds a shrine. He can tech Theo now, he may even go for the AP.
Also, good to get to AI quickly to see how they are doing from a tech perspective, and potentially stir up trouble. Not a bad idea to send a missionary to the foreign land as well to see if we can get a Buddhist ally.
So one option is to beeline. The benefit is that is gets us some hammer producing options (forge and workshops) and improved trade route option (harbors) along the way. It also is on the path the Astro, which will be needed unless we find the rest of the AI to the west.
The other options is Aes->Lit for the Great Lib. The benefit here is the extra research, but even with the marble, it will still take some time, given our low production to get built. That said, if we could get the Mids (maybe chop out in iron city?) with the stone hooked up and switch to Rep, SE would be quite strong. Combined with the Rathouse would give us some good expansion options.
In terms of war options, again assuming semi-isolated, getting a foothold in foreign land early will be helpful. First to astro and some mace and trebs may net some land. But will not know until we find some potential victims.