I think a lot of your questions can be answered in the Sims camp video on Wednesday, where they were allowed to play and only talk about the trailer and what we already knew. Its so funny watching people trying to figure out what to say. Yes new neighborhood its based off of Hollywood and the Hills, and was confirmed that there is no snow in that world because its real life location don't get snow. It was one question I asked and they answered. I can also say the Game changers have also said its the best world EA has ever made.
Edit: I almost forgot I think its more like you have to interact with get famous point objects to get the fame thing going, but we will figure out how that will work on November 2.