If you do your research and use your head then getting a GTP as your first snake is fine. I surprised my gf with 2 baby GTPs for her bday and they can be taken out of their cage and handled with no problem. People also say carpet pythons are mean as babies, but out of 13 I've only had 2 that bit me. You might get a nice one if you're lucky or you might get a demon. I think you'll do fine either way long as you study up on them.