Hey there, I’m Todd, and he’s Leg (the furry one). We’re thrilled you’ve found your way to Compass and Pine, your friendly guide to everything travel.

Our mission here is simple: to share the beauty of the world in an effort to inspire people to see the value of art and land conservation. We’re just a man, his dog, and sometimes his wife, traveling around the world and creating in-depth guides that other travelers find useful. No multi-million dollar enterprises here, just us and our passion for adventure.

Our Journey

From the romantic streets of Florence, Italy, my personal favorite city filled with culture, history, and art, to the breathtaking wilderness of Olympia National Park in Washington State, we’ve been there. We’ve felt the same excitement, the same awe, the same joy that travel brings, and we want to share it with you.

What We Do

We create visually stunning guides to cities throughout Europe, breathtaking photos, restaurant reviews, insightful tips for your travels, and more. Our goal is to make your next vacation your best yet, whether you’re a solo backpacker, a couple on your honeymoon, a family with kids, or retired folks looking for relaxation.

Our Commitment

At Compass and Pine, we’re committed to conserving, preserving, and enjoying public lands. We’re not just about seeing the world; we’re about making sure it’s there for future generations to see.

Get in Touch

We love when our audience engages with our articles by leaving comments, sharing them on social media, and clicking on the links throughout the article. So don’t be shy, join the conversation, and let’s make your next travel experience unforgettable.

The love of wilderness is more than a hunger for what is always beyond reach; it is also an expression of loyalty to the earth, the earth which bore us and sustains us, the only paradise we shall ever know, the only paradise we ever need, if only we had the eyes to see.

Edward Abbey

Todd O’Rourke

Experience

Todd began his career in 2009 writing for video game magazines and websites before joining a consulting firm focused on technical writing for medical corporations and individual practices.

In 2016, he served as the lead Copyeditor for Tuniversity, a book publisher focused on reinvigorating music education through technology and pop music. He collaborated with co-authors Brent Paschke (lead guitarist for N.E.R.D.) and Kiko Doran to produce Pharrell Williams’ Happy. The book launched on June 26, 2017, and is available in 51 countries.

In 2017, he joined SoccerTown Media as a Production Assistant for a film titled Soccertown USA: An American Soccer Documentary that premiered during the World Cup.

In 2019, he joined The Tour Guy, where he worked as the Head of Content and Search Engine Optimization. His specialization was on developing long-form content for Rome, Florence, Venice, and Milan.

Todd started Compass and Pine in 2021 after having traveled extensively throughout Europe, Central America, and North America. He aims to share his passion for traveling with other adventurers!

Education

Todd earned his Bachelor of Arts in English Literature with a minor in European History from Rowan University and received his Master of Arts in English Literature with a specialization in comparative literature from Rutgers University.

Leg O’Rourke

Experience

Leg began his career in 2015 as a professional puppy, bringing joy and happiness to everyone he met. He quickly mastered the art of fetch and discovered a passion for belly rubs.

In 2016, he graduated from Puppy Kindergarten with honors, earning a special commendation for his excellent tail-wagging skills. He then moved on to Doggy Daycare, where he specialized in making friends and perfecting his adorable puppy dog eyes.

In 2017, he assumed the role of Chief Happiness Officer at Todd’s Home Office. His responsibilities include greeting visitors, providing emotional support, and ensuring a positive work environment. He excels in his role, consistently achieving high marks in tail wags and cuddles.

In 2019, Leg expanded his expertise to include travel. He has since visited numerous parks and beaches, always ready for a new adventure. His favorite activities include chasing seagulls, splashing in the water, and finding the perfect stick.

Leg joined Compass and Pine officially in 2021, after having traveled extensively throughout the United States. He aims to share his joy and enthusiasm with other adventurers, always ready to embark on the next journey.

Education

Leg completed his education at the prestigious Doggy Daycare, where he specialized in socialization, obedience, and the art of fetch. He continues his education daily, always eager to learn new tricks and meet new friends.

FAQs