erika for travel

ERIKA COYES TRAVEL & EVENT COORDINATOR

Erika is an outgoing, people-oriented, independent Travel Advisor, who is passionate about planning outstanding experiences, cultivating joy and creating lifetime memories.

Erika’s love for travel began many years ago, while studying abroad in the UK and Australia. Since then, Erika has continued to travel widely and has mastered the art of family travel, group travel and adult luxury vacations. As mom of one, and stepmom of two, she is a master planner and has a keen ability to create itineraries that incorporate everyone’s interests and needs.  

Motivated by her dream of starting her own business, Erika completed extensive training with Travel Professionals International (TPI) in 2021.  With a focus on excellence, Erika demonstrates a commitment to lifelong learning through annual conferences, workshops, and certification programs, ensuring her knowledge is current for today's market.

TPI, recently rebranded to Trevello Travel Group, has over 25 years of experience in the travel industry and has cultivated trusted partnerships with industry-leading travel partners.  Erika’s affiliation with Trevello and Virtuoso provides her with unique connections to tour operators and suppliers around the world, which ultimately offers her clients endless choices for the best price.

Understanding that everyone’s travel goals are unique, Erika will work with you to design your perfect trip. Her creative and fun-loving spirit make for easy collaboration and her excellent organization and planning skills will ensure you have the best time. Erika strongly believes that travel is more than just the destination and she would love to be a part of your journey. 

"Erika planned the absolute perfect vacation for our honeymoon. Every detail was considered and we were able to truly just relax and enjoy!"

Beach Vacations and Ocean Cruises

Soak up some sunshine, sand or sea.  Boutique hotels, private villas, all-inclusive resorts, luxury ocean and river cruises.

River Cruises

Immerse yourself in the Old World as you sail Europe's most iconic rivers

Group Travel

Family reunions, wine tours, wellness retreats, culinary trips, ladies weekends or graduation celebrations.

Family Travel

Find time to reconnect with the people you love the most.

Land Tours and Custom Travel Packages

Explore restaurants, music venues, museums, culture and history.

Golf Excursions

Breathtaking courses in the mountains, beside the ocean, or in the desert. Customize any trip with accommodation and transportation.

Latest Instagram Posts

Don't miss a thing, subscribe to get exclusive updates.

Thanks for subscribing!

Latest Blog Posts

Let's Explore the World!

Travel Planning Starts Here

Let's Explore the World!

Welcome to Erika's Travelventures!

I’m Erika, the writer and creator of Erika’s Travelventures. I’m from the beautiful state of Wyoming, in the U.S.A.

I’m passionate about experiencing new cultures, making friends in different countries, trying new (vegetarian) foods, and finding the best viewpoints and trekking spots around the globe.

I hope this blog will inspire you to grab a backpack, hit the hiking trails, book that flight, and plan your best travelventures yet.

Travel blogging since October, 2018

Plan Your Next Travelventures

Start here with some of my favorites:.

Newest Blog Posts

Ghibli Museum vs Ghibli Park – Which should you visit?

30 Cute and Kawaii Things to do in Tokyo

25 Cool and Unique Hotels in Tokyo

Most popular posts.

40 Weird and Unique Things To Do In Tokyo

20 Hakone Ryokan with Private Onsen

15 Mt. Fuji Hotels with Private Onsen

Where to next.

All about Journey with erika

We match travelers to the right small ship cruise experience

At Journey with Erika, we offer custom travel planning, working with couples across the US and abroad! Our passion is culinary & adventure travel (usually both)! We believe travel brings us all closer – experiencing local customs, tasting new cuisine & spirits and getting outside to really see the area you are visiting is all part of the custom vacation packages we develop for our clients.

Join US on a Group Adventure

We host sailings throughout the year & around the globe. Our voyages are hand-selected during the best time year to experience the destination with our preferred suppliers. The sailings include all sorts of adventure options, wildlife and scenery, and you better know that the food will be spectacular! We reserve space at special group rates and have extra amenities included as well. Have confidence we are there if something comes up and you need assistance or if you want a few couples pictures taken… but we are happy to keep our distance and let you have that memorable vacation too.

Custom Travel Planning

Individual vacations on land, at sea or in the air for couples. We help plan as much of the journey as you prefer. Some are looking for air, car rental and resort reservations while others prefer a complete package that includes details such as restaurant reservations, luggage delivery service and private tours. Either way we will ensure your getaway is everything you have dreamed of, and more. Not only will we prepare unique, tailor-made itineraries for you, we will serve as your point-of-contact before and during journey to ensure that everything is seamless.

Popular with businesses, non-profit organizations, and clubs, group travel is the ideal choice for those wishing to deepen customer and donor loyalty. Give us a call or send an email today to learn how group travel can benefit you and be the perfect way to differentiate yourself from the competition. Group travel is highly customizable and we will perfectly tailor your itinerary to reflect your organization’s goals and the interests of your members.  H ere are just a few examples of the types of groups we work with:   Yoga & Wellness – Culinary – Social – Golf – Garden – Alumnae – Family Reunions – Hiking – Wine & Spirit – Family Heritage – Art  – History – Brewery – Sports and so much more!

Personal Concierge

Our personal Travel Concierge Service is offered to an exclusive group of clients who seek the very best in personalized travel and unique experiences. We will get to know and understand you and your travel style on a deeper level and will evaluate your long-term goals and will develop a plan of action over the course of the year to bring these dreams to life. If you are interested in this service please reach out to us and we can schedule a time to speak and evaluate if you would be a good fit.

Contact us today to get started!

Erika Commisso

Luxury travel planner & agency owner.

Erika specializes in creating custom travel itineraries for couples. Some of her favorite travel moments include getting Married on Maui with a Destination Wedding; visiting the Spice Markets in Istanbul; sipping Wine in a small Pizzeria in Pompeii, Snorkeling with Sea Turtles, Octopi and shimmering Cuddle Fish; and walking the Great Wall of China just to name a few. With almost 40 cruises to destinations in the Caribbean, Mexico, Alaska, New England, Norway, Europe and Asia; Erika can help match you to the right cruise line and ship.

[email protected]

Let's Connect

So what are you waiting for?   No matter if it is your first or fiftieth cruise – schedule your free 20-minute consultation with me to get started on your own amazing adventure.  

Not sure where you want to go yet? No problem, a short chat with me and I’ll give you my honest opinion of what itinerary, ship, cabin category, and land package combination I think is best for you.

Hooked at a young age!

Norwegian Cruise Line – The S.S. Norway to be specific – was the very first cruise I ever took! My grandparents took us on this cruise back when I was 8. My favorite memories were of the kids club, wearing fancy matching dresses to dinner with my sister, playing in the pool & beach, the evening dessert buffet with giant ice sculptures… just to name a few! And even back then, the muster drill was mandatory!!

Looking for new Small Ship Cruise Itinerary inspiration??

Sign up to receive weekly luxury cruise articles on breathtaking destinations and experiences!!

Travel insurance: all EF students arrive with coverage

Students are required to have insurance that meets certain minimum standards to travel on our program. Most EF students have travel insurance coverage through Erika and the following guidelines apply. Students with other insurance should refer to their policy documentation for details or contact their parents. If you are not sure what insurance coverage your student has, please contact the EF office at 1-800-447-4273.

Erika vs. Aetna Student Health

Erika Insurance Ltd. (or an alternative insurance company as defined in the applicable insurance policy) and Aetna are separate companies. Erika works with Aetna Student Health and the students have access to the Aetna provider network.

When contacting the doctor’s office, say your student has “Aetna Student Health” as it is widely known and accepted across the nation. US medical providers will not recognize a European company.

Please reference the policy booklet for complete details. It can be found at erikainsurance.com .

Finding a provider

You can find an Aetna network provider at aetna.com/docfind/erika . This website will show all in-network hospitals and physicians in your area, as well mental health professionals, urgent cares and retail clinics. With an in-network provider the copayment is lower, and it is less likely that the doctor’s office will require your student to pay for the entire bill up front.

In most cases, visits to clinics at retailers such as CVS, Walgreens and Walmart are often covered as well. These will show as in-network providers through Aetna’s website, though it’s recommended to give a quick call to the clinic to confirm coverage. Treatment at these clinics is often the most affordable and convenient option.

Important resources:

Ef high school exchange year.

24/7 support line:

1-800-447-4273

Erika Insurance Ltd.

Download claim forms, the policy booklet and find emergency contact details.

Visit erikainsurance.com

Aetna Student Health

Aetna Student Health PO Box 14101

Lexington, KY 40512 1-800-783-7447

Support line: 1-800-783-7447

Find a provider or access Aetna ID cards

Visit aetna.com/docfind/erika

Insurance card

EF distributes insurance cards to students in their home country before they leave for the exchange. This includes an overview of coverage and lists contact information for Aetna Student Health and respective claims agents. EF suggests host families carry a copy of their student's insurance card as well.

Each student's unique Aetna ID number is generated one to two weeks after their arrival in the US. Soon after arriving in the states, students will need to obtain an updated Aetna ID card with their unique number. To find your student’s Aetna ID number, visit aetna.com/docfind/erika .

The Aetna ID number is what you should give to the doctor's office as the policy number. If your student needs to receive medical care before their Aetna ID has generated, use their EF student ID in its place. If your student has lost their insurance card, contact EF at 1-800-447-4273 or print off a new one at aetna.com/docfind/erika .

Below are general guidelines on the coverage. Without specific medical information, Aetna Student Health or Erika will not be able to verify coverage and will ultimately make all final decisions on a case by case basis.

Routine care

Routine care, such as physicals, check-ups and inoculations, is NOT covered. Students who visit the doctor when they aren’t feeling well should remind the doctor’s office that routine visits are not covered, and tell them to send Aetna Student Health a bill explaining why treatment was required.

Prescriptions

Prescriptions must be paid for up front by students. Afterwards, students can send in a claim form to Aetna Student Health for reimbursement. Both the cash register receipt and the medication information label attached to the prescription must be included. Students will be reimbursed for most prescribed medications except for acne, birth control or medication they take for a pre-existing condition. Over the counter medication is not covered.

Dental coverage is provided up to $200 for non-accidental treatment. Wisdom tooth treatment is covered up to $500. Temporary treatment for an injury as a result of an accident is usually covered in full.

Erika Sport

Please note that students are covered during all activities that are organized by their local high school. Erika Sport allows students to participate in risky sports and activities outside of their high school curriculum (i.e., on their own, or with their host family) that would otherwise not be covered should injury occur, including: skiing, alpine sports, lacrosse, wrestling, martial arts, four wheeling, bungee jumping, skydiving, parachuting, white water rafting, jet skiing, snowmobiling, etc.

If your student is going to be participating in any of the above activities, or any organized sports outside of school, please confirm that they do have Erika Sport. For those who don't, encourage them to add this coverage otherwise they will not have coverage for these types of activities.

Students are granted three weeks after their arrival in the United States to pay for the additional Erika Sport. For specific questions, please reach out to Erika or your EF Program Advisor.

Going home for an emergency

The insurance may cover a round-trip flight in case of death or grave illness of an immediate family member. The policy defines immediate family members as parents, legal guardians and siblings of the exchange student. Grandparents do not fall under the definition of immediate family.

If your student has a family emergency and wishes to return home, contact your IEC, EF support staff and the appropriate assistance company listed on your student's insurance card.

Medical treatment

Find a provider at aetna.com/docfind/erika

Contact your IEC whenever your student receives medical care.

Routine illness

In case of a routine illness (e.g., stomach flu, cough, cold, sore throat, etc.), students should see a doctor in the Aetna network or visit an in-network clinic at a retailer like CVS, Walgreens or Walmart. An in-network provider will charge a lower copayment ($20 versus $70).

Please do not go to the emergency room for routine medical care as students will be charged an additional ER copayment per visit. ER visits typically have a longer wait time and a more complicated billing process.

Acute illness or injury

Use your best judgement when acute injuries occur to assess whether an ER visit is necessary. Many broken bones, lacerations or sports injuries can normally be treated at your local urgent care facility. Your wait time will likely be shorter, and billing will be easier at an in-network urgent care center.

We recommend you visit the website listed above to proactively determine the closest in-network urgent care center in your community. If there is not an urgent care facility close by, a visit to the ER may be necessary.

For any serious mental instability, injury, trauma or illness (e.g., possible appendicitis, seizure, etc.), please take your student to the nearest emergency room and contact EF’s emergency line at 1-800-447-4273. Research local ER facilities and their hours of operation. If your student has Erika coverage, you can contact the appropriate assistant helpline, as well.

If your student is in grave condition, please call EF immediately. It is important that EF contact the consulate, who will pass this information on to the parents. Please do not call their family abroad directly.

Find the right exchange student for your family

Does your family have any hobbies or interests that you'd like to share with an exchange student? Are you looking to learn more about a particular region of the world? Consider some of these topics and start browsing student profiles today.

No students found.

Before your student arrives

Preparation is key: how to make sure your family is ready

When will my student arrive?

How to start building your relationship before your student arrives

Add a personal touch to your student's room

How to prepare your exchange student for school

Using family mealtimes to get to know each

The advantages of hosting two exchange students

Student & Host family expenses: who pays for what?

The first days

Making your student feel at home

Rocky start? Try active listening if you're struggling to communicate

Overcoming a language barrier: how you can help

Top tips for supporting your homesick student

Family relationships: helping your student create balance

6 stages of culture shock

Life with your student

Who to talk to if you have a question

Participation is important: help your student get involved locally

Overcoming challenges and misunderstandings with your student

Navigating religious differences and expectations

My student is struggling academically: how can I help?

What if it doesn't work out?

American traditions every exchange student wants to try

5 ways to enjoy fall as a family

10 ways to get in the Halloween spirit

5 ways to give back in November

The holiday season

Other topics

Frequently asked questions

Does your student want to apply for a local drivers license?

Important information when taking your student to the doctor

Health insurance: all EF students arrive with coverage

Student visa information and guidelines on travel

More trips with EF

Custodial guardianship

Saying goodbye and keeping in touch

• Create Account

Signed in as:

[email protected]

• Sandals Resorts
• Tours/Activities/Etc
• Career Opportunities
• Booking with me
• Cirkul Water Bottle

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should i use a travel agent.

Even in the age of online booking, travel agents are a great source of information and discounts. A travel agent can make sure that your trip is tailored to you, assist you in case of unexpected problems, and help you anticipate potential issues in advance.

Will I pay more if I book through an agent?

Our fees are transparent. In many cases, you save more than you spend. We can work within your budget, and we always focus on making sure that you get a solid value in return for our fees. 

Do you book group travel?

Yes! Do you have an upcoming conference for your business or a student trip? We can handle the details and ensure that you have access to group seating, entrances, and discounts. 

HOW DO TRAVEL AGENTS GET PAID? WILL I BE CHARGED EXTRA OR WILL MY ACCOMMODATIONS HAVE AN EXTRA FEE?

We are paid by the resorts, we do not charge a service fee.  

Many resorts have price parity, the cost is same whether you book through us, direct with the resort, or with an online booking engine.  

The difference between using a travel agent is that we help you plan a stress-free vacation without the hassle of going it alone. 

Erika4Travel

Copyright © 2018 Erika4Travel - All Rights Reserved.

Powered by GoDaddy Website Builder

Travel Advisor

Erika Pontius

• Los Angeles ,
• Boutique Travel ,
• Food & Wine

Get in touch with Erika

Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.

You can normally expect a response from Erika within a business day or so. You’ll also be subscribed to our travel newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).

Your message has been sent to Erika !

Learn more about what to expect when working with an advisor.

Profile details

Part-time DIY'er and photographer. Full-time dreamer. Based in Los Angeles, always planning out the next unique adventure – big or small. Half Japanese with cheeky foodie tendencies.

Follow Erika

Travel style.

Researched and aspirational traveler. I always make a big list of things to check out – especially food! – and map them out to explore the most and maximize the trip. I like to get recommendations from locals so that I can authentically feel the beat of the place I am visiting.

Erika 's travel guides & trip reports

Take the Scenic Route Through Hidden Topanga Canyon to Malibu

Favorite hotels.

Mid-century modern meets California cool in this new hotel already featured on everyone’s hot list.

$50 food / beverage credit daily.

Upgrade subject to availability.

Welcome amenity.

The Roosevelt New Orleans, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel

Grand hotel in a building from 1863 within walking distance from Bourbon Street with posh rooms and suites.

$100 hotel / resort credit.

Breakfast daily.

Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Skyview Los Alamos

Iconic roadside motel-turned-boutique luxury with a pool and working vineyard.

Courtyard by Marriott St. George

Contemporary property nearby Red Cliffs National Conservation Area with modern rooms and suites.

Two Continents Of Bosphorus Tour

Click now for beautiful hours in the Bosphorus

Click now to spend good hours in Ihlara valley full of mysteries

Popular Categories

Popular Activities

Ask For Price

İstanbul Tour

Cappadocia tour, private tour, kusadasi tour, daily antalya sightseeings, daily fethiye sightseeings.