Glass CAN work, it just takes a little more time and effort.
It can be tricky to get started, as well as maintain, especially for beginners. But many, many beginners make it work. If you're willing to put in some extra effort and take a little extra time with the trial and error phase you can get things right and then just make seasonal adjustments and follow up with regular maintenance.
That being said, I currently use glass for all of my snakes. However, if my financial situation allowed, I would have all of my animals in PVC enclosures. They are just easier, while still maintaining a good look.