Pay special attention to diplomacy and forming
alliances. It's the crucial thing to do if you want
to be successful.
Purchase the Plus account. It will allow you to
queue builds, which saves time logging in and out.
You'll spend less time managing your villages, and
be able to get more out of them.

If you do a good research this should give you a substantial advantage as far as the knowledge on Travian is concerned.
This way you'll enjoy winning simply because you're better than others and not by entering "magic codes". And It's the greatest feeling: Knowing you're better! Enjoy!