Imported adult ball pythons are a poor choice, because they tend to be heavily parasitized and unwilling to feed. Many people's first snake is a garter snake collected from the back yard, but garter snakes are actually quite a bit harder to take care of than the above-mentioned species. Lizards There are many good starter lizards whose care requirements are not extreme, but that can still provide much enjoyment and interest. Captive-bred bearded dragons are more expensive but equally easy to keep and handle, though it is recommended that the beginner start with a juvenile rather than a hatchling. Aquatic turtles will require a large tank, basking areas, heat sources, filtration, and frequent water changes.
Land turtles require a large amount of land, heated quarters, hiding areas, and an appropriate diet.
This doesn't mean they're off-limits to beginners, though. There are good Advanced Vivarium Systems books on both, and plenty of keepers on the net who will be helpful. Several commonly available caudates make good first herptile pets. They are friendly, robust, long-lived, and fairly big for newts. Adults enjoy bugs of many sorts, meal worms, and earthworms.