Bucket List Travel Specialist for Active Couples
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Donna Schoen
Port Jefferson Station, NY Travel Agent
Cardinal Compass Travel, an independent agent with BNT Travel Group, a Travel Leaders Network Affiliate Agency
5.0
(7)
100% Recommended
I recently had the most amazing trip to Arizona to visit my daughter in college, and I couldn’t be happier with how everything turned out. From... Read More >
Areas of expertise
Destinations:
Hawaii, CaribbeanInterests:
Cruises, National Parks, Hiking & Backpacking, European CultureSuppliers:
Marriott Hotels, Royal Caribbean, Silversea, Celebrity CruisesAbout Me
Travel should be more than a vacation, it should be an experience you'll talk about for years.
As the owner of Cardinal Compass Travel, I specialize in helping active couples and empty nesters plan unforgettable bucket-list adventures to Alaska, Hawaii, and America's National Parks. Whether you're dreaming of an Alaskan cruise with a Denali land tour, island hopping through Hawaii, or exploring iconic parks like Yellowstone, Zion, Bryce Canyon and the Grand Canyon, I'll design an itinerary that fits your travel style and budget.
With 30 years experience as a science educator, I have a lifelong appreciation for wildlife, geology, marine life and the natural world. That perspective helps me recommend experiences that go beyond the typical tourist itinerary while keeping every detail organized and stress-free.
As a PADI certified scuba diver, I also enjoy helping travelers discover incredible snorkeling and diving destinations, from Hawaii's gold coast to the Caribbean's crystal clear waters.
Every itinerary is personalized with thoughtful recommendations, trusted suppliers, and attention to the details that make travel seamless from start to finish.
If you''re ready to check a destination off your bucket-list, I'd love to help you plan a vacation that's every bit as memorable as the destination itself.
Stress-Free Bucket List Travel for Couples
From the classroom to the world-30 years of experience in planning, now dedicated to unforgettable adventures.
Areas of expertise
Destinations:
Hawaii, CaribbeanInterests:
Cruises, National Parks, Hiking & Backpacking, European CultureSuppliers:
Marriott Hotels, Royal Caribbean, Silversea, Celebrity CruisesREVIEWS
Rating: 5.0
7 reviews
100% Recommended
Your trust is our priority. Every review is submitted by verified travelers after they have booked and completed their trips. Learn more about our review guidelines.
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Showing 7 reviews
Great trip visiting PHX AZ
Reviewed By Elyse - Wilmington, NC | Traveled to Phoenix | Arizona | USA
I recently had the most amazing trip to Arizona to visit my daughter in college, and I couldn’t be happier with how everything turned out. From start to finish, the experience was smooth, memorable, and full of moments I’ll be talking about for a long time.
A huge part of what made the trip so special was Donna’s incredible support. She handled our flights, car rental and multiple hotel reservations for us, each one perfectly located and exactly what we needed. On top of that, she secured tickets for several activities that ended up being highlights of the trip. It took all the stress out of planning and let us focus on what really mattered, spending quality time together!
Seeing my daughter thriving in college, exploring the beautiful Arizona scenery, and enjoying all the activities Donna helped arrange made this trip unforgettable. I’m truly grateful for the care and attention that went into making everything run so smoothly.
I can’t recommend this experience enough.
Donna Schoen responded
"Thank you so much for your kind words! It truly meant a lot to be a part of such a special trip for you. I'm so glad everything came together seamlessly and that you were able to focus on what mattered most - time with your daughter. Knowing it was such a memorable experience makes it all worthwhile. I'm busy planning your next trip! Hawaii here she comes!"
✓ I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
2 of 2 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
Vacation master!
Reviewed By Henrietta - NY | Traveled to Cancun | Quintana Roo | Mexico
Donna made our Cancun trip effortless from start to finish. Her guidance, attention to detail, and thoughtful planning allowed us to fully enjoy our vacation without any stress. We will definitely be booking with her again!
Donna Schoen responded
"Thank you so much for your kind words. I'm so happy you were able to relax and fully enjoy your trip! That is always my goal! It was my pleasure to plan this trip for you, and I look forward to your next adventure."
✓ I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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Epic Trip of a lifetime!
Reviewed By Nicole B. - Bay Shore, NY | Traveled to Italy | Europe
I can’t thank Donna Schoen enough for planning such an incredible trip to Italy, followed by a Mediterranean cruise. Every detail was handled so smoothly—from flights and transfers to hotels, tours, and excursions. I never had to worry about a thing, which allowed me to simply relax and enjoy the experience.
Exploring Italy was a dream come true, and the Mediterranean cruise was the perfect way to see so many beautiful destinations without the stress of logistics. Donna Schoen really listened to what I wanted, made excellent recommendations, and even checked in along the way to ensure everything was going well.
This trip exceeded my expectations in every way, and it would not have been possible without such thoughtful planning and expertise. I will absolutely use Donna and Cardinal Compass Travel again for my future adventures and highly recommend them to anyone looking for a stress-free and unforgettable travel experience.
Donna Schoen responded
"Thank you so much for your kind words, Nicole! I am so thrilled you enjoyed your trip to Italy and Greece! I promised you it would change your life! It was a pleasure planning your vacation and I can't wait to start planning the next one!"
✓ I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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Great Cruise
Reviewed By Red Dragon 93 - Setauket, NY | Traveled to Caribbean
Donna booked us for a Royal Southern Caribbean cruise out of San Juan. Our flight and airport transfer was well taken care of. We went to St. Thomas, St. Maarten, St. Croix, Dominica, and Barbados. She suggested getting a balcony room and we are so glad we did. Donna also recommended and arranged excursions to Trunk Bay in St John, Champagne Bay in Dominica, and Carlisle Bay in Barbados. They were amazing and unforgettable. Donna also recommended spending a night in Old San Juan. The hotel, restaurants, and tour recommendations were superb, leaving us wanted to return to Puerto Rico. I would recommend Cardinal Compass Travel to anyone looking for a well planned and hassle free vacation.
Donna Schoen responded
"Thank you so much for your wonderful review! I'm thrilled you enjoyed every part of you cruise down to the Southern Caribbean. The balcony and the excursions definitely took the trip to the next level! It was my pleasure to plan such a special trip for you. I truly appreciate your trust in Cardinal Compass Travel and would love to plan your next adventure.
"
✓ I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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Really nice trip four day getaway to beautiful islands
Reviewed By Fredmod - Stuart Florida | Traveled to Abaco | Bahamas | Caribbean
The whole trip was great meeting people from all over and the food was great ship crew was amazing Donna did a great service
Donna Schoen responded
"Thank you for your thoughtful review! I'm so glad you enjoyed the trip. Celebrity does do a fabulous job! I can't wait to help you plan your next getaway!"
✓ I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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Certifications & Awards
Royal Caribbean Master of Adventure
Royal Caribbean Wedding Specialist
Disney College of Knowledge 2025
Master of Science in Secondary Education
Bachelor of Science in Biology
My Places
When it comes to travel planning, real-world experience makes a huge difference. Check out the map below to see all the places I have personally visited or booked for my clients. I know these destinations well and can give you reliable guidance.
My Travel Stories
My Key West Adventures
Key West quickly became one of my favorite escapes—I loved it so much that I’ve returned three more times! Each visit brought new adventures, from flying by seaplane over turquoise waters to explore the historic Dry Tortugas, to circling the island on a thrilling 34-mile jet ski tour. I never tire of the island’s charm—colorful streets lined wit...
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Client Testimonials
50th Birthday Vacation Success!
I'm so grateful to Donna Schoen of Cardinal Compass Travel for planning such a wonderful 50th birthday cruise to the Bahamas and helping us make the most of our time in Fort Lauderdale. Not only was the cruise seamless and stress-free, but the local recommendations made all the difference.
We would have completely missed out on some amazing experiences if it weren't for her suggestions-like exploring the Everglades on an air boat ride and spending time along Las Olas Boulevard. Those little extras really made our trip special and gave us memories we'll never forget.
It was clear that Donna truly listened to what we were looking for and went above and beyond to make sure our vacation was tailored perfectly to us. I'll definitely be using Donna again for future travels and highly recommend Cardinal Compass Travel to anyone who wants a trip planned with care and expertise.
Elyse & Danny B, Wilmington, NC