Arid shrublands definitely isn't easier than a temperate forest biome. Tons of wood and berries there. I think they spawn more fertile soil than other biomes as well.
And a tribal start also makes things more difficult because it cripples your research speed.
When I want a chill game, I have a custom start that's basically the standard "crashlanded" but with 5 pawns instead of 3. Lets me cover more skills in the early game rather than struggling through until I can recruit to fill the gaps.
Hey look! Someone who only read the headline!