xFenrir - thank you for such a well thought out and detailed post, I really appreciate it! A red tail boa sounds perfect if it weren't for the enclosure size issue, and aesthetically they are my favorite after JCPs. I really like what you said about their inquisitiveness, I'd love that in a snake. I definitely want a snake that doesn't mind being out.

Very interesting point about building my own enclosure, though. I am admittedly not handy at all but a couple of my friends are very into DIY type projects, so that is something to look into. And from the sounds of it, a properly furnished Rubbermaid tub seems to be a common recommendation for young snakes, and I know that would save me a lot of money initially.

Otherwise, snake size isn't an issue, but I'll be sure to remember what you said about having someone in the house in case I need help. I'm a 5' 7" girl and have wrestled down angry 80 lb dogs, but snakes are fast.

You mentioned some really good points about getting the snake that I want... I am pretty adaptable when it comes to my pets, but I also try to be reasonable. I'm all for loving each of your pets for what they are, but I'd also like to get something I really liked from the start. After all, that is where a lot of my interest begins. So I'll definitely do my research on and outside the forum and some heavy thinking as well. If I don't feel ready for a snake come January then that is fine, there is a smaller expo in August that I can always go to. I'll definitely be at the one in January though just for the hands on experience of meeting the snakes and talking to the experts.

A question about tubs - it does seem like they are a heavy favorite, how do you keep the tubs closed? Are there any links to tub set ups that aren't snake racks?

Again, I really appreciate the info on Red Tail Boas, thank you so much for writing that all out for me.

John1982 - thanks for the suggestions, and apologies for such a long original post, but I did state near the end that I'm not interested in corn snakes or children's pythons. I know corn snakes are the beginner snakes, but to be honest I find them a little dainty. They are stunning and very cute, but just not what I'm looking for at the moment. Although, who knows? Maybe I'll go to the expo and fall in love with one anyway!

mikoh4792 - thanks!! I'll look them up and do some research on them. Have never heard of them before, of course, so thanks!