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Lia Pontarelli

Lia Pontarelli

Cedar Rapids, IA Travel Agent
Super Agent

Lia Pontarelli

Cedar Rapids, IA Travel Agent
A full-service Travel Leaders Associate Agency
26 reviews
92% Recommended
3 Years of Experience

Dream Vacation Designer

Traveling isn't just about getting away, it's about trying/learning something new. You might learn about a new culture, try some different foods, or even learn more about who you are/want to be. OR you could simply learn that you love the feel of sand between your toes! Traveling has long been something I've enjoyed, and I love that I am able to help others plan trips and have unforgettable experiences. I love the organizing and details that go in to planning a new adventure. I love the thrill of experiencing a new part of the world. I love the joy that comes with the lasting memories you make. Wouldn't you like to experience those thrills and joys? I specialize in Alaska and Hawaii trips, Disney vacations, river and ocean cruises, wildlife based experiences, beach & all-inclusive vacations, and adventure based expeditions. I can't wait to help you plan your next adventure!
My Travel Specialties

Certificates & Awards

Travel Stories & Media

Client Reviews

My Places

Client Testimonials

Areas of expertise

Destinations
At Sea
Denmark
Italy
Alaska
Florida
Hawaii
See All Destinations >
Interests
Animals & Wildlife
Beach Vacations
Cruises
Disney Vacations
European Culture
Historical Sites
See All Interests >
Supplier Partners
Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa
Avanti Destinations
Disney
Disney Cruise Line
Norwegian Cruise Line
Adventures By Disney
See All Supplier Partners >

My Travel Specialties

Alaska Travel Expert
Alaska Travel Expert
Alaska is a beautiful state that many people only ever see a tiny sliver of. It's full of beautiful landscapes, glaciers, wildlife, and a breathtaking sky. When you visit Alaska on a cruise it gives you a great introduction to the state. When you visit the mainland you get a real chance to explor...
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Hawai'i Destination Expert
Hawai'i Destination Expert
Aloha! Hawai'i, for many great reasons, is typically high on peoples bucket list. It's beautiful beaches, lush greenery, volcanoes, sea life, people and rich history make it a dream vacation location.   Personally, I love the islands so much that I became a certified Hawai'i Destination Ex...
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Magical Disney Vacation Planner
Magical Disney Vacation Planner
Whether it's Disney World in Florida, Disneyland in California, a Disney cruise, staying at the Aulani resort in Hawaii, or a Disney Adventure, there's truly something for everyone. And definitely not just the children! In fact, I'd venture to say that Disney can be just as good, if not better, a...
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Ocean & River Cruise Vacation Specialist
Ocean & River Cruise Vacation Specialist
Cruising is such a wonderful way to take in so many different experiences all in one trip. And the best part, you don't have to pack and unpack constantly! Whether it's a cruise around the Hawaiian islands or one visiting the various Greek island, one going into the fjords of Norway or down to th...
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European Travel Specialist
European Travel Specialist
I'm enjoy being a travel agent with a strong focus on creating exceptional travel experiences throughout Europe. With an in-depth understanding of the diverse cultures and breathtaking destinations that Europe has to offer, I take great pride in curating customized itineraries that cater to each ...
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Italy Travel Specialist
Italy Travel Specialist
As a travel agent specializing in Italy custom itineraries, I am passionate about creating unforgettable and personalized experiences for my clients. With years of experience and a deep love for Italian culture (I may be biased being Italian), I take pride in crafting unique and immersive travel ...
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Certificates & Awards

ASTA is the leading global advocate for travel agents, the travel industry and the traveling public.It is the world's largest association of travel professionals.Our members include travel agents and the companies whose products they sell such as tours, cruises, hotels, car rentals, etc.Expand your world.Go with the pros.
Avanti Certified Expert
Avanti Certified Expert
NCL University - PHD Degree
NCL University - PHD Degree
Royal Caribbean University - Master of Adventure
Royal Caribbean University - Master of Adventure
UnCruise Certified Adventurist
UnCruise Certified Adventurist
Viking Expeditions Expert
Viking Expeditions Expert
Viking Oceans Expert
Viking Oceans Expert
Viking Rivers Expert
Viking Rivers Expert
Travel Alaska Certified Expert
Travel to Italy Specialist - Italian Tourism Board
Disney College of Knowledge Graduate
Hawai'i Destination Expert
Princess Academy Staff Captain
Anchorage Wild Expert
Switzerland Travel Expert - Switzerland Tourism
US Virgin Islands Specialist
2024 Agency of Excellence
Princess Cruise Line - Alaska Expert
Alaska Railroad Travel Expert
Apple Leisure Group Vacation Certified Specialist
Travefy Certified

My Travel Stories

Visit Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
Getting to Lake Louise we flew into Calgary, rented a car, and drove up into the mountains.  We were a little nervous about driving into the mountains in November, but the weather was great. From someone who has driven from Denver up into the mountains many times, this route was nothing like that! The roads were better and wider, and we were nev...
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Swim with Whale Sharks in Isla Mujeres
Most everyone that has spent time with me knows that I say the beach is my happy place. I don't typically spend a lot of time in the water, but the beach has my heart. So when my mother brought up jumping into the ocean to swim with whale sharks, I was a little hesitant. Okay. I was very hesitant!! I figured I would just go along on the trip and...
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Polar Bear Capital of the World
When people talk about seeing animals in their natural habitat, most people think of things like an African safari. Had it ever crossed your mind to go see polar bears in their natural habitat? Well, that's why we headed to Churchill! It’s a small town up on the Hudson Bay.  That first afternoon/evening, as we were driving to the area whe...
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My Photo Albums and Videos
Florence, Italy
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    CLIENT REVIEWS

    Rating: 5
    26 reviews
    92.31% Recommended
    International travel without the stress
    Reviewed By Sherm - Cedar Rapids, Iowa | Traveled to Ambergris Caye ~ Belize ~ Central America
    Lia provided our family with several options to choose from, ranging from destination, transportation, excursions etc. Once we made our decision, Lia made sure all details were covered and verified all arrangements prior to our departure. Lia made sure all aspects of our adventures went as planned and communicated any changes (including last minute changes) in a timely manner. Lia was fun to work with and her expertise in travel gave us full confidence, relieving us of any vacation planning stress. Lia is awesome to work with!!
    I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
    9 of 10 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
    Trip to Alaska
    Reviewed By JT - Riverside, Iowa | Traveled to Alaska ~ USA
    Lia was fantastic to work with! Her communication was timely and informative. Payments were explained thoroughly and options were given.
    She accommodated our requests and truly made our dream trip come true. Lia was available to ask questions even during our travels and followed up to inquire about our experience. We will definitely use her again for big trips!
    I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
    5 of 5 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
    Highly satisfied!
    Reviewed By Jen - Washington, IA | Traveled to Riviera Maya ~ Quintana Roo ~ Mexico
    Lia took time to find out what we were looking for in a vacation and then provided us with many options and choices. She answered all of my questions promptly and made our vacation planning a breeze! I had a concern with an excursion while on my trip and she responded immediately and was right there to help!
    I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
    5 of 5 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
    Alaska adventure
    Reviewed By JL - Garnavillo iowa | Traveled to Inside Passage ~ Alaska ~ USA
    Very helpful, listened carefully, made good suggestions, very prompt
    I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
    4 of 4 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
    Best Honeymoon Experience!
    Reviewed By Alisha - Marion, Iowa | Traveled to Nashville ~ Tennessee ~ USA
    Lia did a great job helping me plan my honeymoon to Nashville. She provided us with different options based on type, our interests and price. She was very diligent in her follow up when I was the one dropping the ball! The trip was so smooth and she helped make it a trip to remember. I would highly recommend you working with her to make your life that much easier!
    I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
    4 of 4 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO

    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.

    Client Testimonials

    Surprise Alaska Cruise
    Lia helped me plan the ultimate surprise vacation cruise to Alaska for my dad. She was so helpful and knowledgeable with all of my questions and really went the extra mile to help us with a flight issue. I would highly recommend Travel Leaders/ Destinations Unlimited when planning your next trip! I look forward to working with Lia again when planning my next adventure!
    Erin W. - Cedar Rapids, Iowa
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