I've handled an 11 foot burmese python so I can do it, but wouldn't want to go much bigger than that. I'd say 10 ft is my limit. I'm only around 110 lbs so I want to feel safe with my snake.
Would you say it'd be safe for me to sit on the couch with one? I could keep some hot water nearby should he ever bite and not let go. It worked on my BP at least.
I'm also considering a medium-to-large lizard like an iguana or tegu. I had an iguana when I was younger and they're really fun, though mine got too aggressive to handle.