Many travel blogs focus on where to go next. Wanderers Compass, on the other hand, questions: How can travel change the way people see the world?
That idea has guided co-founders Joelle Machia and Ryan Slough since they launched Wanderers Compass in 2019. This company was born out of many years of travel together, careful planning, and a fascination with history, culture, and responsible traveling. Today, the website reaches people seeking travel tips based on personal experience.
Their partnership is an unusual one. Their paths first crossed in 2007. Friendship led to traveling together and sharing the passion for exploration.
Why Meaningful Travel Matters More Than Ever
Modern tourists are looking for experiences rather than ticking off popular tourist destinations from their lists. They are eager to learn about the destination’s history and culture.
Moreover, sustainable tourism contributes to economic prosperity while preserving culture and the environment. This trend has spurred travel writers to create content that helps tourists make informed decisions.
Joelle and Ryan developed Wanderers Compass based on the above idea. They write in a way that encourages their readers to take their time, go to smaller towns, learn about history and culture, and enjoy local traditions. They want tourists to have stories to tell when they come back, not just pictures.
“Live life by the needle of a compass, not by the hands of a clock,” says Ryan Slough.
How Wanderers Compass Changes the Travel Conversation
The power of Wanderers Compass lies in the diverse life experiences that its founders bring to every post.
Having worked for many years in oncology, scientific research, and bioethics in the healthcare field, Joelle has developed a thorough attention to detail, a sense of responsibility, and respect towards people from diverse backgrounds. Ryan is a U.S. Army veteran who has been deployed several times throughout his career. After serving in the military, traveling became an essential way to find new purposes and gain new perspectives on life.
For Ryan, the first foreign trip he made with Joelle back in 2014 became a revelation. During 21 days spent in Ireland, England, France, and Italy, he found his passion for cultural exploration and learning about new countries. While traveling through Europe, Ryan and Joelle developed the concept that would later be called “Castle Hunters,” exploring hundreds of castles and learning the stories behind each.
Research published by National Geographic Travel has also highlighted that meaningful cultural experiences often create stronger, longer-lasting memories than fast-paced sightseeing. This reflects the same travel philosophy found throughout Wanderers Compass.
Resources Offered by Wanderers Compass
Rather than a simple travel diary, Wanderers Compass is a comprehensive educational resource for independent travelers. Its content includes:
- Destination guides covering history, culture, and practical planning.
- Detailed travel itineraries based on firsthand experience.
- Photography that supports destination storytelling.
- Responsible travel advice and cultural etiquette.
- Travel podcast episodes featuring conversations about destinations and global travel.
- Digital magazine and educational travel content.
Joelle and Ryan’s work has earned growing international recognition. At the Forttuna Global Excellence Awards in Dubai, Joelle served as a keynote speaker and received both the Content Creator of the Year and Travel Influencer of the Year awards. In September 2025, she also participated as a speaker and sponsoring delegate at a United Nations General Assembly side event focused on the Sustainable Development Goals. Adding to these accomplishments, both Joelle and Ryan were named to the Forttuna Global 100 List in 2025 for their contributions to excellence, innovation, and positive social impact, with the announcement featured on a digital billboard in Times Square in July 2026.
Building the Future of Conscious Travel
Wanderers Compass focuses on stories that can inspire individuals to see beyond popular spots.
Joelle Machia and Ryan Slough’s diverse backgrounds in healthcare, military, education, and travel allow them to offer a unique perspective on each destination. Their different backgrounds allow readers to appreciate the importance of history, respect for the communities they visit, and how thoughtful travel can leave lasting impressions.
With continued growth, Wanderers Compass continues to inspire travelers to explore the world with curiosity and respect for all cultures.