Usually, newbies prefer local boards, not only because they are already used to the language, but also the character of local boards will certainly be similar, because they come from the same country. Not to mention if the local board is very solid, it really helps to support each other. However, that doesn't mean it will be very easy, because after all it has to be a good post to deserve merits. So, you don't just get merit just like that.
I don't understand other countries, but as far as I know, on my local board, they are very solid in helping each other, discussing and so on. Unfortunately, for now, I personally still post more often globally.