Terry Bandy is a California-based Senior Data Scientist. Originally from Boston, Massachusetts, he graduated High School in Saint Paul’s boarding school at New Hampshire. Mr. Bandy finished his undergraduate degree at the Tufta University. Originally, the focus of his subjects were on a path to the medical field, and he eventually shifted to Computer Sciences at the first year of his stay in the university.

Terry Bandy was a member of the Undergraduate Business Association at Tufta University. As a Junior, he was active in being a co-founder of a tech based business. He continued working on this business even after graduation, focusing on different areas of expertise such as web design and analytics. He had the opportunity to include more members in his team.

After 5 years of being a CEO, Terry Bandy sold the company successfully to another person and helped in their transition. At the same time, he was also able to finish his Master’s Degree in Business Intelligence.

At present, he works as a Data Scientists for many known US firms via contract basis. He enjoys spending more time with his family through travel: being immersed in new cultures, exploring unique destinations and enjoying new experiences with the people he loves.

What is your favorite thing about traveling?

My favorite thing about traveling is getting to experience new things hand-in-hand with the people I love. I really enjoy traveling with my family. I love how we get to sit down in a coast during sunset, or walk along vintage streets, seeing their faces light up while being in a place we have never set our foot before. There is really nothing more fulfilling in my travels than having those small moments.

Is traveling a hobby or a lifestyle for you? How did you get started?

I wouldn’t say that traveling is a lifestyle for me, because I believe that lifestyle should be built on values, such as having a lifestyle of zeal. Having the desire to travel is just one part of that zealous lifestyle. I am a risk-taker and I’m all in for new experiences. That is why I want to live my life with no regrets, being able to say that I am doing what I love the most. I got started traveling when I sold my company to another individual years ago. I worked on contract-basis, and having that freedom to work remotely gave me so many opportunities to travel the world with my family is something I’ll treasure my whole life.

Do you have any exciting travel dates planned for the future?

I really enjoy visiting culture-rich places, and I’ve been looking into destinations in South East Asia or Japan, sometime in summer for next year. When opportunity permits, I would like to visit the beautiful beaches and historical landmarks known to each country.

What are some travel tips you’d give to someone inexperienced?

If you are new to traveling, I would advise you to look into travel blogs and reviews first. You want to visit the place on what it is known for first, and then later on if you plan to come back, explore the more obscure spots. Once you’re in your destination, ask the locals about what’s popular and head there. You would want to experience as many things as possible since your time is limited.

Where would you like to go?

As I mentioned, I would like to explore the South East Asian countries, probably Thailand or Philippines if circumstances permits. I have been to places and Europe and South America, and I would like a taste of something different from those places I have been.

Where would you like to revisit?

Given the chance, I would really love to visit Costa Rica again. The vibe of that country is so free-spirited, and it seems like people don’t run out of things to do. Since I am a nature-lover, I would like to do more trails over the mountains at Monteverde, and for more relaxed activities I would still want to hang out at the beaches of Manuel Antonio and Tamarindo.

Do you travel alone? Why?

I do not usually travel alone. As I said, I love sharing new experiences with my family. I love being part of that moment together where everything’s quiet, and yet, there’s really nothing to be said. It’s just me and the people I love, banking in precious memories. I do enjoy some time alone in nature. Occasionally, I would take quick walk or a bike just to get some fresh air.

If you could pick the top 3 places every person should go, what would they be?

I would say the top three countries for me are Italy, France and Costa Rica. The richness of the culture and beauty of these countries really amaze me.

Do you travel light or do you pack up the house?

That’s an interesting question, I guess it depends on the place! I personally like to travel light, but if I’m with the kids, packing up at least half of the house should be in the to-do list. My advice is to trust your instincts. If you feel like you should bring something, you probably should.