I've heard that Laotian Newts are becoming more popular and are easy for a beginner newt keeper. A 20 gallon long is perfect for a pair of them, never keep more than 1 male in a tank though, multiple females is ok if you have the room. You should check out the most recent issue of Reptiles Magazine, there is an article on the newts I'm talking about in it. I saw one at the last reptile show in taylor, mi and regret not getting it. It was a pretty big one, very cool creature. There are all kinds of cool newts though, some are just higher maintenance than others. I suggest checking out Caudata.org if you're interested in them, lots of nice people and good information over there.