The Story of Wanderers Compass

“All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them.” 

Walt Disney 

We Are Wanderers Compass

Welcome to our travel blog, and thank you for taking a moment to learn about us and our story. We’re genuinely glad you’ve stopped by.

We’re Joelle and Ryan, the co-founders of Wanderers Compass Travel Blog — partners in life, travel, and the occasional “let’s book the ticket and figure it out later” decision.

As we continue this journey, we do so with excitement, curiosity, and a healthy respect for the unexpected detours that travel (and life) always seem to throw in. Wanderers Compass is more than a collection of travel stories; it’s a platform rooted in responsible and sustainable travel, where we highlight culture, history, local communities, and the importance of traveling with care and respect. Our goal is simple: to inspire and encourage you to turn your travel dreams into beautiful, real-life experiences — the kind that stay with you long after the suitcase is unpacked.

So, who are we, and how did Wanderers Compass begin? Our path here hasn’t been traditional, but it’s taught us something we carry into every adventure: the best moments happen when we stay present, follow our hearts, and aren’t afraid to think a little outside the box.

About Joelle

I’m married to my high school sweetheart and am a mom to two adult children and a grandmother to four grandchildren. Family has always been at the center of my world, and the seasons of life continue to shape my heart in meaningful ways. As a first-generation American born to French immigrants, I’m bilingual and hold dual citizenship. French was my first language, and while I still speak it, my grammar may sometimes leave a little to be desired, but that’s part of the charm, right?

The wanderlust my parents passed down to me runs deep, and I proudly carry on that tradition. My love for travel and adventure began when I was just a toddler, and it has never slowed down. Despite a fear of flying and a few medical challenges that might deter others, I refuse to let anything hold me back from exploring the world.

Travel has become more than a hobby; it’s a way of life and an essential part of who I am. It continually fuels my curiosity, resilience, and zest for life. I truly believe adventure is worth embracing, even when fear or obstacles try to stand in the way. There is so much joy in discovering new places, experiencing different cultures, and appreciating each new moment along the journey.

Medical Background

In my professional journey, I earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a Bachelor of Arts in Behavioral Sciences. My nursing career has focused primarily on oncology, both in clinical practice and in research settings. Today, I continue to serve in the medical field as a member of medical research ethics boards, helping ensure studies are conducted responsibly and with patient safety and dignity at the forefront. This ongoing work shapes how I see the world and allows me to thoughtfully weave health-related perspectives into my writing, sharing insights drawn from years in medicine, research, and patient advocacy.

Public speaking has also been a meaningful part of my path. I’ve had the privilege of presenting across the United States and contributing to a variety of medical publications along the way. Being able to combine my passion for healthcare with a desire to educate, support, and make a positive impact on others has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my professional life.

Family has always been at the center of my life. Over the years, I’ve also learned that family is much more than blood; it’s built through connection, shared experiences, and the people who become integral to our life chapters. I’ve been incredibly blessed with amazing individuals who are family in every way, including Ryan and others who have shaped my journey in lasting and meaningful ways. Right alongside that love for family is my love of travel.

Other Interests

When I’m not exploring somewhere new, you’ll usually find me behind a camera, tending to my garden, experimenting in the kitchen, or savoring a good glass of wine. Volunteering with military service members is another cause close to my heart, rooted in a deep respect for those who serve and sacrifice for our country.

I tend to burn the candle at both ends, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. Life is meant to be lived fully, and I thrive on embracing everything that comes my way, whether it’s a new adventure, a meaningful moment with loved ones, or an opportunity to give back.

“Live life by the needle of a compass, not by the hands of a clock.”

Ryan Slough

About Ryan

Ryan is a devoted single dad to an incredibly joyful and kindhearted boy who is truly the light of his life. His son means everything to him, and he takes great pride in being a present, hands-on father. For Ryan, every day is an opportunity to build memories, share experiences, and be fully engaged in the moments that matter most, knowing just how quickly this time passes.

But Ryan’s story extends well beyond fatherhood. In 2024, he began an exciting new chapter as a full-time college student, driven by a deep commitment to creating an even stronger future for himself and his family. He will complete his bachelor’s degree in the spring of 2026 and plans to begin his master’s program shortly thereafter. Along the way, he was inducted into Phi Kappa Phi for his 4.0 GPA, an achievement that reflects his discipline, hard work, focus, and dedication to excellence.

Ryan also serves as a Master Sergeant in the U.S. Army Reserves after many years on active duty. For a disabled veteran, his dedication to service remains a defining part of his life. Over the course of more than two decades in uniform, Ryan completed three deployments to Afghanistan and served at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. His military career is marked by resilience, sacrifice, and leadership — though he would be the first to deflect praise. His humility, quiet strength, and unwavering sense of duty are part of what make him so deeply respected and inspiring.

Travel Transforms

Among Ryan’s many passions, travel holds a deeply personal place in his life. Travel has been transformative for him, broadening his perspective and reshaping his path in ways he now feels called to share. His journey from years of military service to discovering healing, purpose, and connection through global exploration has resonated with many and has been featured in storytelling about resilience, reinvention, and the life-changing power of travel.

He believes meaningful travel is possible for everyone, no matter their background or starting point, and he is passionate about helping others discover journeys that change them, too. For Ryan, travel isn’t just a hobby; it’s an essential part of who he is. He thrives on researching destinations, designing detailed itineraries, and thoughtfully planning experiences that balance culture, history, and human connection. His love for travel runs deep, rooted in the profound ways it has shaped his own growth, and he’s driven to help others experience that same sense of discovery and possibility.

Beyond travel, Ryan’s interests reflect his creative and adventurous spirit. Whether he’s riding his customized Harley or Indian motorcycles, working with his hands through pottery and woodworking, writing poetry, or exploring music, he finds fulfillment in creative expression and movement. Despite juggling the roles of devoted father, dedicated student, military leader, and passionate traveler, Ryan approaches life with resilience, curiosity, and heart.

In everything he does, Ryan shows that challenges do not define a person’s limits, they can shape their strength. He embodies the belief that growth is always possible, horizons are meant to be explored, and each of us has the power to build a life filled with purpose, connection, and adventure.

Ryan wrote an article about how transformative travel has been in his life. It is a powerful read; check it out here.

How We Met

You might be wondering how we arrived at this point. The truth is, we are the most unlikely of business and travel partners. We live on opposite coasts of the United States and are in completely different life stages. Our paths first crossed in 2007 when I joined an organization called Soldiers’ Angels. At the time, I was working full-time in Oncology and caring for a parent with advanced cancer. Seeking a way to escape the heavy emotional toll of my daily life, I began searching for new opportunities to volunteer. Having always been in awe of the sacrifices made by those who serve in the military, I decided to adopt a deployed soldier, committing to sending them regular letters and care packages.

It didn’t take long to guess who my first “adopted” soldier was: Ryan. He was stationed in Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom. Our connection was life-changing for both of us. Over the next decade, I continued to adopt soldiers through Soldiers’ Angels, and several of them have since become cherished members of my family. I feel incredibly proud of them and deeply honored to be a part of their lives.

Travel Inspiration

After Ryan left active duty, we stayed in close touch. Fortunately, I often had business trips to his area, and over time, what started as a friendship evolved into something more profound, like family. Ryan joined us on a few family vacations, and with each trip, our bond strengthened. I traveled extensively around the U.S. and Europe during this time, sometimes solo, sometimes with family and friends. Ryan was always captivated by the stories and photos I shared from my adventures.

After he left the military, Ryan faced some difficult times. To lift his spirits, I suggested he join me on one of my future trips to Europe.

Ryan has always had a deep fascination with history and culture. Though his childhood travel experiences were limited to local trips and military deployments, he often dreamed of visiting the places he’d admired from afar. As a young man, he spent countless hours watching Rick Steves’ travel and history programs on PBS. He dreamed big but never believed it could actually become a reality. So, when I suggested that he travel to Europe with me, his eyes lit up—and in that moment, I knew I had to make it happen for him.

Our First Overseas Trip

In 2014, that long-awaited “maybe one day” finally became a reality. Ryan was at a pivotal turning point in his life. He had just purchased a home using a GI loan and, for the first time, had the financial stability to imagine something bigger than just getting by.

So we took the leap.

I booked the flights and accommodations while Ryan poured himself into planning the day-to-day itinerary. Together, we mapped out every detail with care and excitement. This wasn’t just a vacation — it was a once-in-a-lifetime journey. Over 21 days, we would travel through Ireland, England, France, and Italy.

I truly believed this might be Ryan’s first and only chance to see Europe, so it had to be unforgettable. Adding to the significance, he would celebrate his 30th birthday during the trip, a milestone we both knew would be marked in a way neither of us would ever forget.

And it Was Beyond Our Wildest Expectations

From the moment we arrived in Ireland, it was as though a new energy had sparked in Ryan. He came alive in a way I had never seen before. This once-shy, often unsure young man was suddenly animated, bold, and full of excitement. Every moment, every sight, and especially every castle left him in awe. He was captivated by the culture, the people, the winding roads, the bustling schedule, the food, and the drinks. He even found joy in getting lost. Fearless, he embraced a spirit of adventure that I hadn’t seen in him before.

For me, someone who had traveled extensively, it felt like seeing the world for the first time through Ryan’s eyes. His genuine gratitude, infectious energy, and pure, childlike joy made every experience even more special.

The trip was extraordinary. To my surprise, traveling with Ryan was effortless and enjoyable. We shared a similar travel style, which made each moment uniquely fun. Finding a travel companion who can make every experience feel like an adventure is rare, and Ryan’s boundless enthusiasm was genuinely exhilarating. On our flight home, we were already planning our next journey, and at that moment, our travel team was officially born. Ryan developed a deep love for castles, and we christened ourselves Castle Hunters, determined to explore as many as we could on our future adventures.

Castle Focused

Our next adventure came in 2015. This time, our travels took us through England, Wales, Scotland, Ireland, and Northern Ireland. It was an epic journey where we dubbed ourselves Castle Hunters. No matter how much we packed into each day, there was never enough time to see it all. We visited over 100 castles, with a few stops at whiskey distilleries along the renowned Whiskey Trail. After all, when in Rome…

You might think visiting 100 castles could grow repetitive, but we were never bored by these magnificent structures. Each castle had its own unique character and story, sparking our imaginations as we tried to picture what life must have been like in those ancient times. We discovered magic in each one’s walls.

Beyond the castles, the stunning countryside, breathtaking scenery, and the warmth of the locals, our love for travel only deepened. Every moment of this journey confirmed our shared belief: we had to keep exploring and continue experiencing the world in all its beauty and diversity.

Want to see all the castles we have visited? Check out our Master Castle List page here.

The Birth of Wanderers Compass

In the years that followed, Ryan’s life grew busier, especially with a deployment looming. Meanwhile, I continued to travel whenever I could, both in the U.S. and abroad, often with friends and family. Some of my grandest adventures included a trip to France’s Provence with my gourmet cooking club and a sister-bonding getaway to Greece. I love traveling with people who share my passion for exploring the world.

After a few years away, Ryan was finally able to travel again. The experience gave him a sense of fulfillment and a measure of control over his life. He loved sharing stories of his travels and encouraging others to embark on their own adventures.

Then, Ryan had a wild idea.

He suggested that we start a travel blog. He wanted to help others find the magic he had experienced, especially people with dreams they thought could never come true. His vision was to inspire and encourage others, particularly disabled veterans who struggle after service. He was determined to show that travel could be transformative and affordable, sharing the tips and tools that had made our adventures possible.

Initially, I wasn’t entirely on board with the idea, and it remained on the back burner for a while.

Interested in how to start a blog? Learn more about us and our blogging journey here.

The Adventures Continue

In 2019, we embarked on two remarkably successful European trips. After these adventures, Ryan’s idea took on a life of its own, and we decided to take the plunge and start a travel blog. That’s when Wanderers Compass was “born” in the fall of 2019. Naturally, the journey hasn’t been without its ups and downs. There have been moments of feeling overwhelmed, plenty of frustration, and many challenges. Neither of us is particularly tech-savvy, and we had never done anything like this before. The learning curve was steep.

But we had something even more powerful driving us: the support of our loved ones. It made everything possible. There were times we questioned ourselves—“Are we completely nuts?”—those moments when it felt like we were jumping off a precipice. But despite all the doubts, we persisted.

This wasn’t just about starting a blog; it was about making a dream a reality. Giving up was never an option.

We answered some of the most common questions on our FAQ page.

Best Laid Plans

Wanderers Compass was set to launch in April 2020, timed perfectly with what was meant to be our next European adventure. I was in Norway with my husband when COVID-19 began spreading rapidly across the globe, and it wasn’t long before our trip came to an abrupt and unsettling end. Soon after, Ryan and I made the difficult decision to cancel our April journey to Europe. We watched with heavy hearts as the world changed almost overnight, international borders closed, and travel, something that had become such a meaningful part of our lives, came to a standstill.

At first, we weren’t sure how to move forward with the blog. Launching a travel platform when the world couldn’t travel felt almost impossible. But deep down, we both knew this dream was bigger than the moment we were in. We believed that one day the world would reopen, and when it did, people would be eager not just to travel again, but to travel with intention, curiosity, and appreciation. We also saw how deeply the travel industry was hurting and felt a strong pull to be part of its rebuilding — to support destinations, tell meaningful stories, and help reconnect people with the world.

So instead of pausing, we pivoted.

We used that unexpected stillness to learn everything we could about travel media, storytelling, and building a platform with purpose. We poured our time and energy into creating Wanderers Compass from the ground up, shaping it into something that reflected not just where we had been, but what we believed travel could be.

Looking back, it was the best decision we could have made.

More than 60 countries later, across six continents and over two million flight miles, here we are, living a journey we once only imagined in our wildest dreams.

The Rest is History in the Making

In 2025, our journey expanded in ways we once only talked about as distant dreams. We launched the Wanderers Compass Podcast, opening a new space to share deeper stories, meaningful conversations, and the voices behind the places we explore. Our work was recognized on a global stage when we were named to the Forttuna Global 100 Power List, and seeing our images displayed in Times Square was one of those surreal, pinch-me moments we will never forget.

That same year brought the honor of speaking at a United Nations side event, an experience that underscored how deeply responsible travel, cultural understanding, and human connection matter to us. In Dubai, Joelle was awarded Travel Influencer of the Year and Travel Content Creator of the Year at the Forttuna Global Excellence Awards — an unforgettable moment that reflected years of dedication, resilience, and belief in what Wanderers Compass could become. Along the way, we explored nine countries, each one adding new layers to our perspective and purpose.

Then, in January 2026, we stepped into a new chapter with momentum and gratitude. We launched our Wanderers Compass Digital Magazine, bringing our storytelling into an immersive new format. Our first book, Founders in Focus, was published, with both of us contributing chapters; it is now available on Amazon. And Joelle began her one-year term as a United Nations Representative for ECOSOC, allowing our work in sustainable and responsible tourism to contribute to conversations on a truly global level.

Final Thoughts and Gratitude

The road continues to amaze, challenge, and inspire us more than we ever imagined, and we could not be more grateful.

We would sincerely appreciate it if you shared our Wanderers Compass Travel Blog with your friends and family.

May you always wander in wonder!

© 2026 Wanderers Compass All Rights Reserved

Check out our Travel Tips and Resources Page to optimize your travel

---

Our Travel Stats

Countries	Flight Miles Flown	Continents	States/U.S. Territories
64	2,169,577	6	52

So Much Magic Out there…….Where is Your Next Adventure?

Our Top Recommended Travel Products

Travel Insurance

Squaremouth.com
Our Favorite Travel Insurance Site!

We strongly advocate comprehensive travel insurance, not only for minor inconveniences but also for major, unexpected events such as medical emergencies. We never leave home without it. Our go-to resource is Squaremouth.com. which offers a user-friendly platform that connects you with top-rated, reputable insurance carriers. Plus, they’ll mediate on your behalf if you run into any issues.

To empower you as a consumer, we recommend you read our blog post on why travel insurance is essential and how to secure the best coverage from leading companies at an affordable price.

buy now

MedjetAssist
Medical transport back home from anywhere in the world

Medjet is a leading provider of global air medical transport. Unlike traditional travel insurance, which typically covers medical evacuation to the nearest facility, Medjet goes further by ensuring you’re transported back to the U.S. to the hospital of your choice once you’re stable enough to fly. Medjet offers membership plans that focus on medical transport, while Medjet Horizon provides expanded coverage for broader protection. Individual trip policies start at just $99, and annual policies are available for around $300. Most policies have an age limit of 74.

To learn more about how Medical Evacuation membership with Medjet Assist works, check out our blog post for a more detailed review.  

Buy now

Accommodations and Airfare

Booking.com
Hotels, Home rentals, BNBs, Flights, and other Transportation & Tours 

Booking.com connects millions of travelers to unforgettable experiences, a wide range of transportation options, and incredible places to stay—from homes to hotels and beyond. As one of the world’s largest travel marketplaces, it supports well-known brands and entrepreneurs of all sizes. For its convenience, variety, and reliability, it’s our preferred booking platform.

Book now

Expedia and VRBO
Hotels, home rentals, BNBs, flights, and other transportation & tours 

Expedia is a U.S.-based company with a mission to make global travel accessible to everyone, everywhere. At Wanderers Compass, we embrace independent travel, and platforms like Expedia are essential to making that a reality. Expedia allows you to book every aspect of your trip—from flights and accommodations to rental cars, cruises, and activities—making it a one-stop shop for all your travel needs.

Book now

Transportation

Daytrip
Personalized city-to-city private car transfer service

Daytrip provides an affordable private car service for city-to-city transfers worldwide, and we absolutely love their service. It’s a cost-effective alternative to renting a car, offering comfortable, stress-free travel with the added benefit of scenic stops along the way. For example, we used Daytrip for travel between Budapest and Vienna, enjoying some fantastic detours to local attractions. With professional drivers and customizable routes, Daytrip ensures a smooth ride while allowing you to explore hidden gems and unique sights along your journey.

To learn more about Daytrip, check out our blog post for a more detailed review.  

Book now

Travel Experiences

Viator
The leading marketplace for travel experiences

Viator believes that travel is all about creating unforgettable memories. With over 300,000 experiences to choose from—ranging from simple tours to extreme adventures, plus a wide array of unique, niche activities—it’s never been easier to make lasting memories. We frequently use Viator during our travels and especially appreciate its flexible cancellation policy, which provides peace of mind with every booking.

Explore now

Communication products for seamless connectivity overseas

GigSky International eSIM Data Plans
Local Prices. No Roaming. Fastest Networks.

GigSky eSIM effortlessly connects travelers worldwide, eliminating the need to swap physical SIM cards or face unexpected roaming charges. With affordable data plans and instant activation, you can enjoy reliable internet access in over 190 countries, making your travel experience more convenient than ever. Plus, they offer a fantastic deal: a free 100 MB data plan with no credit card required. They are so confident that you will love their service!

Enjoy 10% off all GigSky Plans (except cruise and inflight) with our discount code WCOMPASS10.

To learn more about how GigSky works, check out our blog post for a more detailed review.

SHOP NOW

Shopping

Wanderers Compass Amazon Storefront
An excellent source for all travel essentials and guides that we have vetted ourselves

Amazon is one of the world’s most comprehensive online shopping platforms, offering lower prices, a wide selection, and fast delivery through its global fulfillment network.

Shop now

This page contains affiliate links. When you purchase through these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your ongoing support!

Flights, Accommodations, and Everything You Need to Book in One Place

Planning a vacation this year? Start your research early to explore your options and find what fits your budget. By booking your own travel, you’ll uncover great deals and have complete control over your itinerary. The links below can be used for all elements of your trip, not just accommodations.

When planning a trip, it’s always wise to compare accommodation prices across different platforms. Expedia, based in the U.S., and Booking.com, based in Europe, don’t always feature the same properties, so checking both can give you the best range of options. We prefer Booking.com for its user-friendly interface and wide selection, but we always recommend double-checking the hotel or vacation rental’s official website. Sometimes, you’ll find exclusive deals or perks when booking directly.

Click the link below to explore hotels and vacation homes in the area you are planning to visit. Who knows? It might be just the spark you need to start planning your next grand adventure.