You don't need to pay expansions with diamonds if you don't wish too.
The impediments are here to make things a bit trickier and in fact, imo the whole feature is not meant to be too easy and finished too fast.
As others have said, this is not going to be to the taste of everybody, but those who like a challenge and something new this is a very welcomed addition to the game.
Also, remember that it is the beginning and that it probably seems harder because we have to find out things by ourselves, contrary to the main cities where most of us can benefit from the experience of others.
Good day to all
I agree in some points, but wish to add my additional thoughts. I am trying out the Vikings for the second day, and it was exactly what I thought, what was written before: that it would be a good idea, removing the impediments for getting some whatsoever resources. (Metal, stone, snow, coins...) Doing something friendly with the whale and getting diplomacy therefore.
And this answer says: Life is hard, the game must be harder. Unless some people will be bored.
Why say "No" to a good idea?
The game is full of challenges: Expedition, Guildwars, Events, Quests... And what if somebody has seven cities and wants Yggdrasil for all seven... OMG!
Let's just help the developer making this interesting feature (Vikings, Egyptians, native Africans, Marsians, whatever) more delightful for all types of gamers in the future. Enjoy and relax.
Also for those with the tiny smartphone displays and the ones enjoying the creation of a beautiful village over and over again. Even if it is lost afterwards.