I got my normal ball python 13 years ago as my first snake. If you want calm handleable snake they are a great option. Since you didn't mention that you wanted a display snake I'm guessing it won't bother you that they spend most of their time in the cage hiding. They do require a more specialized cage compared to some of the other common pet snakes but if your heart is set on a heavy bodied constrictor and you're willing to do the research a ball python can be a great pet.

Check out the thread on setting up a glass tank. Also keeping a couple humid hides in there for him/her is a good idea.