TONS of questions, share your wisdom and pics

[ALTownsend1]

So...I'm on BP.net due to my single Ball Python, but as a Florida resident who grew up on the water, the idea of owning a beautiful aquarium has always intrigued me. I'm reaching out to you all for advice on a few things:

1. Fresh vs. Saltwater--What are the pros/cons, whether it be species possibilities, or general upkeep and costs

2. How varying can your fish be? i.e., is it possible to have a good number of different species in a single aquarium?

3. What is a generally good sized aquarium? I would love something with a nice, furniture looking base, and have seen some for good prices with everything in the 55 gallon range. Is this a good size, or are the 100+ a better choice? I'm not in a monstrous house, and don't have unlimited funds, so by no means am I looking for an MTV Cribs aquarium. Does size limit species possibilities? Is there a "most popular" size, or most bang for your buck?

4. What are average monthly costs and what are the general upkeep requirements?

5. Where do you purchase your:
-Supplies
-Fish
-etc.

6. Do fish allow you to vacation? i.e., can I go home for the weekend without coming back to a tank full of dead fish? How do you handle time away?

7. How do you transport fish in case of a move?

8. Any other advice or opinions

9. SHOW OFF! I'd love to see your setups, I can't get enough of the beautiful aquariums people have and would love to see what everyone has!

Thanks for any help, you guys rock