I vote carpet if you want something that is better for a display as they don't tend to hide all day and can become more confident with age. If you aren't picky about looks, they can be had for less than $100. They can make a great handleable pet and the smaller ones (irian jaya) don't get much heavier if at all than the average ball python. Care is also very easy. Lots of info on them around, if you go looking.