Alaska Travel Expert

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Lia Pontarelli, Travel Agent in Cedar Rapids, IA

Lia Pontarelli

Cedar Rapids, IA Travel Agent
Super Agent

Lia Pontarelli

Cedar Rapids, IA · 5 Years of Experience

A full-service Travel Leaders Associate Agency
4.9
(62)
97% Recommended
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... Read More >
About
Reviews
Certificates & Awards
My Places
Travel Stories & Media
Client Testimonials

Areas of expertise

Destinations:

Anchorage, Kenai Fjords National Park, Inside Passage, Fairbanks, Denali National Park

Interests:

Animals & Wildlife, Nature, Adventure, Bucket List, Cruises

Suppliers:

Princess Cruises®, Holland America Line, Royal Caribbean, Disney Cruise Line, HX

About Me

Alaska isn’t just a destination, it's a feeling. Vast, untamed, and unforgettable, it’s a place where nature still writes the rules. Glaciers stretch to the horizon, mountains rise like giants from the earth, and the sky seems bigger than anywhere else you’ve ever been. This is the kind of place that doesn’t just meet expectations, it reshapes them.

One of the most captivating ways to begin your journey is by sea. Cruising along Alaska’s rugged coastline, you’ll glide past towering fjords and shimmering ice fields, watching whales surface in the distance and eagles circle overhead. It’s an awe-inspiring introduction, but only the beginning.

Step onto the mainland, and Alaska truly comes alive. In its coastal towns and wild shores, you might find sea lions basking on rocky outcrops or catch the powerful breach of a humpback whale. Journey inland from Anchorage toward Denali, and you’ll travel through landscapes that feel almost cinematic with rushing rivers, endless forests, and the commanding presence of North America’s tallest peak rising in the distance.

For those drawn to the edge of the map, the Arctic offers something even more profound: a raw, quiet beauty paired with rich cultural traditions that have endured for generations. It’s a chance to not just see Alaska, but to connect with it.

I work closely with you to design a journey that reflects your travel style, interests, and sense of adventure. Whether you’re dreaming of a scenic cruise, a rail journey into the wilderness, guided wildlife encounters, or venturing off the beaten path, I craft personalized itineraries that bring every detail together seamlessly. From must-see highlights to hidden gems, your Alaska experience is thoughtfully planned so you can focus on taking it all in.

Whether you dream of a peaceful cruise, a rugged land expedition, or a seamless blend of both, every Alaska journey can be as unique as the traveler taking it. The goal isn’t just to visit—it’s to experience something that stays with you long after you return home.

REVIEWS

Rating: 4.9
62 reviews
97% 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 62 reviews

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.
10 of 11 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.
6 of 6 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.
6 of 6 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.
5 of 5 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
Magical Disney Experience
Reviewed By Kelli - Cedar Rapids, IA | Traveled to Florida ~ USA
From the very beginning Lia was great to work with. She accommodated to our work schedules to first sit down and work with us to really determine what we wanted to get out of our trip. I got quick responses when I would email her questions and she really made me relax and just put my mind at ease that everything was going to be taken care.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
6 of 7 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO

Certifications & 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.
Trusted Travel Advisor: A Trusted Travel Advisor credentials, resources and global connections translates to today’s consumer in respectful interactions, confidentiality, knowledge, and client advocacy of travel services provided in parallel with building long lasting client relationships that builds with each interaction.  A Trusted Travel Advisor knows their client better than the client may know themselves and puts those polishing touches on each travel collaboration.
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 Oceans Expert
Viking Oceans Expert
Travel Alaska Certified Expert
Anchorage Wild Expert
Princess Cruise Line - Alaska Expert
Alaska Railroad Travel Expert
Fairbanks Aurora & Midnight Sun Certified Expert

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 Photo Albums and Videos

Fairbanks, Alaska and Northern Lights
View Album

    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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