my personal opinion is that a Tatoo should mean something to you. You are going to have it on your body for the rest of your life. Yes its nice to show off a bit and a well placed well done tatoo is awesome. I just say to be sure its something you will want your kids to see. Or that you will still want/enjoy when your 60.
I myself am planning on getting a mural done either on my back or chest. I still want full sleeves but it may mess up the idea of the mural. Buddy of mine just finished his arms, chest, sides, and back. Took 3 years to finish. From the waste up its almost a full suit except for his stomach. Earth and Fire themes on one arm. Water, and wind on the other (4 elements). Back is covered by a huge dragon. He has his wife on one of his sides, kids on the other. I think he said its a little over $10,000 invested in INK.