Why Wanderers Compass Founders Joelle Machia and Ryan Slough Say Meaningful Travel Begins on the Roads Less Traveled and How to Plan Adventures That Truly Matter

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Written by Sixteen Ramos

Travel opportunities are there, even when one is on a budget. This is proven by two exceptional individuals who stand out with a philosophy that goes beyond the typical tourist experience.

Joelle Machia and Ryan Slough are the inspiring co-founders behind Wanderers Compass Travel Blog. Their mission is to help individuals discover the transformative power of independent travel and create adventures that resonate deeply within.

Joelle and Ryan are so much more and highly different from the typical travel bloggers. They are ordinary people with busy lives. Yet, they make every travel moment count. They plan every detail, often driving themselves.

This approach encourages them to take the "road not taken." It leads to truly authentic cultural experiences. They encourage everyone to explore beyond their comfort zones. This means turning down that single-lane dirt road.

It means wandering the tiniest villages. It means grabbing a brew at a local pub. It means sampling local cuisine. And it means walking down ancient alleys.

They believe extraordinary adventures happen when you do this. These adventures create memories you will cherish for a lifetime.

Wanderers Compass: Your Guide to Authentic Journeys

Wanderers Compass is a valuable resource for independent travelers. Joelle and Ryan share their decades of experience through storytelling, photography, destination information, and travel tips.

They have collectively visited 63 countries. They have flown over 2 million miles. They have explored six continents and 52 U.S. states and territories. Their travel statistics alone speak volumes about their dedication.

The Niche: A Love for Castles And History

A fun fact about Joelle and Ryan is their passion for castles. They have visited 460 castles and counting! Their "Castle Hunters" page is a dedicated space to learn about these magnificent structures. It shares their ongoing adventures.

A Valuable Resource

Wanderers Compass prioritizes its readers. They are building a strong travel community. Subscribers receive quarterly newsletters. These updates them on new articles, future travel plans, and other activities. While independent travel is a focus, the site is a resource for all travelers. Their Country Travels Guides and Blog Posts offer a wealth of information. This helps with travel planning.

Above all, Wanderers Compass encourages responsible global citizenship. They want travelers to move with confidence, determination, a kind heart, and open eyes.

Meet the Wanderers: Joelle Machia and Ryan Slough

Joelle Machia and Ryan Slough bring diverse backgrounds to their shared passion for travel. They believe that living in the moment, following your heart, and thinking outside the box are true gifts.

Joelle Machia: A Life Fueled by Wanderlust

Joelle is a first-generation American. Her parents were French immigrants. She is bilingual and holds dual citizenship. French was her first language. Her love for travel began as a toddler and never slowed down.

Joelle’s previous career was in nursing. She holds a BSN in Nursing and a BA in Behavioral Sciences. Her focus was oncology. This background allows her to share health-related content on the blog. She has also spoken across the U.S. and contributed to medical publications.

Ryan Slough: From Service to Soulful Journeys

Ryan is a single dad. His son is the light of his life. He takes great pride in being a hands-on father. Every moment with his son is precious.

In 2024, Ryan became a full-time college student, a goal he took on in his 19th year of Army service. He is a Master Sergeant in the U.S. Army Reserves and is pursuing a communications degree. He first served on active duty for his first four years and is a disabled veteran. His commitment to service remains strong. His military career includes three deployments to Afghanistan and a tour in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. He has over two decades of service. He has given much to his country. He considers himself no hero, though.

Planning Adventures That Truly Matter

Wanderers Compass encourages travelers to embrace the unknown. Their approach emphasizes meaningful travel. It is about connecting with local cultures. It is about stepping outside your comfort zone. It is about creating lasting memories.

Joelle and Ryan are members of prestigious travel writing organizations. These include the Society of American Travel Writers (SATW). They also belong to the North American Travel Journalists Association (NATJA). They are part of the International Food Wine Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA). They are also members of the International Travel Writers Alliance (ITWA). Wanderers Compass is also a verified Veteran-Owned Business.

Conclusion

Joelle and Ryan began this blogging adventure with excitement and a clear vision. More than four years in, their goal remains simple: to inspire you. They want to encourage you to turn your travel dreams into beautiful realities.

May you Wander in Wonder and Live the Extraordinary.