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
My Travel Specialties
Reviews
Certificates & Awards
My Places
Travel Stories & Media
Client Testimonials

Areas of expertise

Destinations:

Germany, Switzerland, Florida, Hawaii, Rome

Interests:

All Inclusive, Animals & Wildlife, Beach Vacations, Disney Vacations, European Culture

Suppliers:

Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa, Disney, Europe Express, Princess Cruises®, Viking

About Me

Dream Vacation Designer

Travel isn’t just about getting away, it’s about discovering something new. A different culture, new flavors, fresh perspectives…sometimes even a new side of yourself. It can be life-changing or beautifully simple, like realizing you love the feel of sand between your toes. Travel has always been my passion, and I’m so grateful I get to help others create unforgettable journeys. I love every part of the process, the planning, the research, and the excitement of bringing each trip to life in a meaningful way. Every destination leaves a lasting impact, shaping who we are and how we see the world. That’s the true magic of travel. Whether you’re dreaming of Alaska, Hawaii, cruises, Europe, wildlife experiences, or adventure travel, I’d love to help you plan your next escape.

My Travel Specialties

Italy Travel Specialist

Italy Travel Specialist
As a dedicated travel agent specializing in custom itineraries for Italy, I am deeply committed to curating exceptional and memorable journeys for my clients. Drawing upon extensive professional experience and a genuine passion for Italian culture, an affinity that runs even deeper given my own I...Read More ▶

Alaska Travel Expert

Alaska Travel Expert
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 ...Read More ▶

Hawai'i Destination Expert

Hawai'i Destination Expert
Aloha! Hawai‘i is a destination that consistently ranks high on travelers’ bucket lists for a multitude of compelling reasons. From its world-renowned, sun-kissed beaches and lush, emerald-green landscapes to its awe-inspiring volcanoes and vibrant marine life, Hawai‘i offers an unparalleled blen...Read More ▶

European Travel Specialist

European Travel Specialist
As a passionate travel agent, I specialize in creating extraordinary travel experiences throughout Europe, tailored specifically to each client’s desires. My extensive knowledge of the continent’s rich history, diverse cultures, and breathtaking landscapes allows me to design itineraries that res...Read More ▶

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...Read More ▶

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...Read More ▶

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.
Search reviews:

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.
Avalon Waterways Specialist
Avalon Waterways Specialist
Cosmos Certified Specialist
Cosmos Certified Specialist
Hurtigruten Expeditions Certified Agent
Hurtigruten Expeditions Certified Agent
NCL University - PHD Degree
NCL University - PHD Degree
Globus family of brands Specialist
Globus family of brands Specialist
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
Windstar Star Specialist
Windstar Star Specialist
Travel Alaska Certified Expert
Travel to Italy Specialist - Italian Tourism Board
Hawai'i Destination Expert
Disney College of Knowledge Graduate
Anchorage Wild Expert
Switzerland Travel Expert - Switzerland Tourism
Princess Academy Staff Captain
Princess Cruise Line - Alaska Expert
2024 Agency of Excellence
US Virgin Islands Specialist
Alaska Railroad Travel Expert
Apple Leisure Group Vacation Certified Specialist
Fairbanks Aurora & Midnight Sun Certified Expert
Avanti 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

Polar Bear Capital of the World
View Album

    My Travel Stories

    Exploring the Enchanting Beauty of Cinque Terre

    My trip to Porto Venere and Cinque Terre was nothing short of magical. Upon arriving in Porto Venere, I was immediately drawn to the colorful houses that lined the waterfront, creating a beautiful backdrop against the sparkling blue sea. I wandered through the narrow, cobblestone streets, soaking in the charming atmosphere and the scent of fresh...
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    Take a Very Merrytime Christmas Cruise with Disney

      My time on a Disney Christmas cruise was truly a magical experience that exceeded all my expectations. From the moment we boarded the ship, I was welcomed into a winter wonderland, with stunning holiday decorations that filled the atrium and festive music playing throughout. The excitement in the air was unmistakable, and I couldn't wai...
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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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    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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