The young couple and their two sons have caught the attention of Brisbane radio station B105, some very generous local businesses and even A Current Affair.

Brisbane radio station B105 first rallied for local businesses to help create a dream wedding for Yasmin and Ryan after a series of setbacks put wedding planning well and truly on the back-burner.

Yasmin, 29, was recently diagnosed with a very rare stage three cancer after a grapefruit-sized tumour was removed from her right lung through open heart surgery. The couple has a growing pile of medical bills but all Ryan wants to do is marry his love and put a smile on the faces of his two children.

A DJ, hair stylist, makeup artist and cake-maker are just some of the generous local business who have already donated their time and expertise to help this couple celebrate a very special occasion.

Wallace Bishop has offered up the dream engagement ring and wedding bands while Gambaro Hotel will host the big day.

The team at Flight Centre thinks no wedding is complete without a dream honeymoon to cap it all off so we’ve set up an online travel Gift Registry loaded with a $3,000 kick-start.

The general public can make a contribution to the Gift Registry – you can click here to make a contribution online, call  131 600 or visit any one of your local Flight Centre stores to make a contribution in-store.

Yasmin and Ryan’s touching story was first submitted to B105 as a Dear Abby letter. You can read the original letter in full on the B105 website here.

ENDS: Media enquiries to Kellie Carty on 07 3170 8106.

Economy airfares for travel between March and May 2015 start from $1,632* to Rome, from $1,676* to Paris, and from $1,848* to London.

Valid for sale from August 1 2014 and for travel on various dates in 2015.

*Price is subject to change and availability at the time of booking.

Phone Flight Centre on 1300 939 414 or see www.flightcentre.com.au/europe-earlybirds for details.

ENDS: Media enquiries to Kellie Carty on 07 3170 8106.

THE FLIGHT Centre Foundation is wrapping up its biggest national fundraising campaign to date, raising $43,000 in support of Aussie farmers.

The month long fundraising campaign culminated this week  with three staff, who initiated the campaign, cycling from Brisbane to Charleville where they will present Aussie Helpers with a cheque for all money raised.

All efforts were in support of Aussie Helpers, a charity which helps fight poverty and lift the spirits of farmers and their families severely affected by drought in the outback.

The money raised, achieved in just over a month of fundraising efforts, equates to 610 hay bales for Aussie farmers in drought-stricken areas.

Flight Centre’s fundraising crusade included a mix of staff fundraising efforts and also a first-ever for the company in the form of a live online auction with the proceeds going to Aussie Helpers.

“One of the high value items up for auction was an authentic State of Origin jersey donated by Darren Lockyer himself which he personally signed for the lucky recipient,” said Anita Russell of the Flight Centre Foundation.

In head office, every kitchen surface was covered as more than 140 Flight Centre head office staff got baking for a morning tea bake sale.

Flight Centre Foundation’s Anita Russell said proceeds contributed by staff were matched dollar for dollar by Flight Centre Travel Group.

“We set an ambitious fundraising target in the beginning but we knew our farmers were in need of our help so we’re delighted with the outcome.

“The Aussie Farmers charity is a worthy candidate to channel our emergency fundraising efforts and we’ve been overwhelmed at the support of our staff and industry partners,” Ms Russell said.

For more information on the ‘buy a bale’ campaign visit http://aussiehelpers.org.au/donations/

This afternoon’s changes mean that the airline will waive booking amendment and cancellation fees for customers travelling up to and including December 31, 2014.

Malaysia Airlines has advised FLT that booking amendment and cancellation requests must be made on or before Thursday, July 24, 2014.

FLT will also waive its amendment and cancellation fees for Malaysia Airlines customers and will continue to work with the carrier to help those who have been affected.

The company has also secured alternative deals with other airlines for customers who now plan to amend their arrangements.

FLT customers who wish to amend or cancel MH bookings are asked to contact their FLT travel consultant as soon as possible.

Where possible, the company’s consultants will also endeavour to help other affected travellers.

ENDS

The new aviation security measures have been announced this month and particularly relate to flights to, from and via the United States and United Kingdom, including stopovers through Europe, Africa and the Middle East.

The key changes specify that items powered by lithium batteries – such as those found in mobile phones, tablets and laptops – have to be carried in hand luggage, not checked baggage and that all devices must be able to be turned on at security, or risk having the device confiscated or the passenger denied boarding. 

If you cannot prove your device functions as normal, there is a strong chance you will not be allowed to fly, or you may have your item confiscated and/or you asked to undergo additional screening.

“Keep your chargers and power adaptors on hand to avoid having an electronic device go flat,” Flight Centre’s chief operating officer Melanie Waters-Ryan recommends.

“While most airports have power outlets to charge your devices, they can be limited so don’t rely on the ability to charge your device at the airport,” she said.

Ms Waters-Ryan also urges travellers to be patient while these new security measures are put in place.

“We urge all travellers to pay particular attention to the new security measures as they are put in place to ensure passenger safety,” she said.

“Travellers will need to be patient during the next few months as these are recent changes to airport security and may cause delays as a result.”

More information on these new security measures, including FAQs is available on the Flight Centre blog here.

For more information, please contact Kellie Carty, PR Manager, Flight Centre, on 0432 952 488 or kellie_carty@flightcentre.com

Would-be travellers can expect  hot deals on offer for holidays in Canada, Alaska, Hawaii, Mexico, South America and can take home a free 100-page glossy magazine showcasing the best of USA’s National Parks, road trips and theme parks, Alaskan cruses, Hawaii’s islands and more.

Now in its eight year, the free event is the only dedicated event where 100s of travel industry experts gather to offer travellers as much choice as possible so they can research, plan and book on the day with access to special travel deals.

Expo attendees can expect a massive range of airfares, cruise itineraries, accommodation options, tours and more.

Air New Zealand is also making a special appearance this year, bringing its brand new Skycouch economy seating along so soon-to-be-travellers can experience the future of economy comfort.

The Skycouch will be on display at the Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane expos and is just like a couch on a plane – a row of three Economy seats that together create a flexible space for whatever you want it to be – an area to relax and stretch out in, or for the kids to use as a play area.

America-bound travellers can also chat with tourism bodies including Brand USA and Visit USA, and attend free  theatrette presentations from leading airlines, tour providers, cruise lines and hotel groups showcasing travel destinations and awarding prizes on the day.

Flight Centre Australia’s Tom Walley said the America’s is still one of the most popular overseas holiday destinations and a low airfare will really help offset the US dollar.

“While the dollar may fluctuate, one thing we can offer is a good value airfare and great deals of accommodation, tours, car hire and more” he said.

“Airfares to Hawaii, Los Angeles or even Dallas are very affordable right now so this means travellers can still snap up a  great value America holiday.”

Mr Walley said more than 5,5000 bookings were made at expos nationally in 2013 and event organisers are expecting to see more bookings in 2014 thanks to a range of exclusive expo-only offers.

“We find that the majority of attendees, around three quarters of the crowd, come to an expo looking for information from the experts for a holiday they plan on taking in the next six to 12 months.”

“We make sure we have a range of exclusive expo-only offers on airfares, accommodation, tours, car hire and other travel-related packages to make life easier for those who have taken the time to visit the expo,” Mr Walley said.

Experienced travel consultants from Flight Centre, Escape Travel, Student Flights, Cruiseabout and My Adventure Store will be available on the day to take bookings and offer expert advice.

The Discover the Americas Travel Expo will be held in capital cities across Australia on dates as specified below.

KEY DATES:
SYDNEY - Sunday 27 July at the Sydney Showgrounds, Sydney Olympic Park
BRISBANE – Sunday 3 August at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre
ADELAIDE – Sunday 3 August at the Adelaide Convention Centre
MELBOURNE – Sunday 10 August at the Melbourne Exhibition Centre
PERTH -  Sunday 10 August at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre

Entry is free. Visit travelexpo.net.au for more information. Expo attendees also go in the draw to win a luxury 7-night APT Missippi river cruise and return airfares with Air New Zealand valued at $18,000.

ENDS: Media enquiries to Kellie Carty on (07) 3170 8106

Home of the blues and jazz, this Chicago package available through Flight Centre includes return economy class airfares to Chicago, four nights’ accommodation at the 4-star Conrad Chicago in a standard room, return airport transfers and an Insider Chicago Grand Tour with Gray Line Chicago.

Touring Chicago is a walk in the park with the comprehensive tour including a visit to iconic attractions such as Lincoln Park, Washington Park, Grant Park and the scenic Outer Drive.

Travel departing:
Adelaide from $3,013* per person
Brisbane from $2,897* per person
Cairns from $3,051* per person
Canberra from $3,057* per person
Darwin from $3,280* per person
Hobart from $2,996* per person
Melbourne from $2,891* per person
Perth from $3,023* per person
Sydney from $2,882* per person

Valid for sale until June 30, 2014. For travel July 21 – October 5, 2014.

For bookings and details, phone your nearest Flight Centre store on 1300 939 414 or see www.flightcentre.com.au.

*Prices are subject to change and availability.

Discover the iconic sights of San Francisco from the Golden Gate Bridge to vibrant Chinatown before heading to the renowned California Wine Country to explore the lush vineyards of the Napa Valley, sample fine wines and even blend your own bottle of wine.

This seven-night Trafalgar guided holiday package includes seven nights in 4- or 5- star accommodation with breakfast daily and many other meals, as well as the services of a professional travel director, local guides and luxury transport throughout.

Guests can also indulge in exclusive insider experiences such as a Be My Guest dinner and private tour of a Sonoma winery.

Valid for sale until October 30, 2014. For travel May 1 – October 2, 2015.

For bookings and details, phone your nearest Flight Centre store on 1300 939 414 or see www.flightcentre.com.au.

*Prices are subject to change and availability.

Flight Centre’s Double Dip flights are a great way to double your holiday fun by visiting two places on one low fare.

Price includes return economy class airfare to Cancun with a stop in Miami flying Qantas Airlines and alliance partners.

Travel departing:
Adelaide from $2,845* per person
Brisbane from $2,539* per person
Cairns from $2,855* per person
Darwin from $3,029* per person
Melbourne from $2,535* per person
Perth from $2,995* per person
Sydney from $2,507* per person

For travel October 14 – November 24, 2014.

For bookings and details, phone your nearest Flight Centre store on 1300 939 414 or see www.flightcentre.com.au.

*Prices are subject to change and availability.

Australia’s relatively new found love of cruising has made it one of the travel industry’s fastest-growing segments.

Proving particularly popular this year is river cruising, a segment of the cruise market where the ships are smaller for a boutique, intimate experience. Luxuriously appointed, river cruises allow travellers to get up close and personal with itineraries often including a number of shore excursions.

Flight Centre’s team of experts, together with luxury river cruise operator APT, has compiled a list of ten river cruises to add to your bucket list.

1.    Central Europe

Central Europe is still the most popular destination for Aussie cruisers due to the fact that so many countries can be covered in one itinerary for a diverse offering of history and culture.

TRY THIS:  APT’s 15-day Magnificent Europe luxury river cruise from Amsterdam to Budapest. Guests visit five countries (Netherlands, Germany, Austria, Slovakia and Hungary), taking in 16 towns, village and cities and enjoying 28 included experiences. It’s an all-inclusive trip so all meals, drinks, accommodation, sightseeing, transfers, tipping, port charges and porterage are included in the price.

2.    Russia

Russia is tipped to be one of the hottest river cruise destinations of 2015, steadily rising in popularity over the past couple of years. River cruising offers a great way to explore as it covers vast areas, giving guests access to sights and destaintions that would otherwise be hard-to-reach.

TRY THIS:  APT is launching a new river cruise ship, called the MS Anastasia, which will make its debut in May 2015 on a 13-night Russian Waterways cruise. A restaurant by celebrity chef Luke Nguyen, two whirlpools and a champagne and caviar bar are just a few of the luxurious highlights that guests can expect to enjoy in addition to the extensive sightseeing program.

3.    Portugal 

Go off the beaten track with a river cruise in Portugal. Still one of river cruisings ‘best kept secrets’, this destination can be easily pared with land tours in Spain to create an Iberian adventure of a lifetime.

TRY THIS: Thread your way through Portugal’s ethereal landscapes on a Douro river cruise from Porto to Barca d’Alva. Highlights include the 14-century Alpendurada Monastery, Lamega Castle, the Palacio de Mateus near the city of Vila Real and not to mention wine tastings and the chance to sample the world famous local tipple – Port!

4.    Mekong

River cruising in Vietnam and Cambodia is the only way to access and explore some of the more remote regions of these countries and that’s what is driving the appeal of this travel style for Australians looking to experience a real slice of local life.

TRY THIS: Benefit from the input of APT Ambassador, celebrity chef Luke Nguyen, who will be hosting two APT holidays to Vietnam in 2014, sharing some of his own some personal stories, local customs and a selection of culinary experiences.

5.     Burma (Myanmar)

Burma is a relatively new destination for river cruising, with 2014 set to see the region slowly emerging from the far-reaching shadows of its more developed neighbours and with good reason. Mystical, mysterious and largely uninfluenced by the Western world, it’s a country of incredible charm.

TRY THIS: There’s no better way to explore the untouched essence of this beautiful nation than on a river cruise along the mighty Irrawaddy River. APT’s new luxury river cruise ship,   the MS AmaPura, accommodates just 56 guests and will make her maiden voyage on these waters in 2014.

6.    Mississippi 

Cruising America’s Deep South between New Orleans and Memphis, Mississippi river cruising is proving a big hit.

TRY THIS:  APT’s first Mississippi river cruises aboard the boutique-sized Queen of the Mississippi  paddle-wheeler set sail this month. Highlights include a visit to Oak Alley – an historic mansion and plantation located in the community of Vacherie, Louisiana; a tour of the Vicksburg National Military Park for an in-depth discovery of the history of the civil war; the chance to tour a working cotton farm; a tour of Graceland, former home of Elvis Presley; and a backstage tour of The Grand Ole Opry House which holds an iconic weekly stage concert and radio broadcast.

7.    Amazon

River cruising on the Amazon is one of the most spectacular experiences, offering a magical interaction with the wildlife and natural beauty of a region that boasts around one third of the world’s recorded plant and animal specials.

TRY THIS: APT offers its popular and exclusive luxury Amazon river cruises aboard the 28-suite Delfin II with guests spending three nights exploring the bountiful wildlife on these waterways. Highlights include swimming with pink dolphins, hiking through rainforest, cruising on a skiff through inaccessible tributaries and visiting a riverside community to gain insight into the local way of life.

8.    Zambezi

Glide through Botswana’s Chobe National Park aboard a luxury river ship and you’ll soon see the benefits of a river safari. As well as being able to spot animals and birds as they come to the river at dusk to drink, you’ll also glide over to the shores of Namibia to meet local villagers and have the chance to get even closer to the wildlife by taking out a small motorised boat.

TRY THIS: Sail onboard Botswana’s Zambezi Queen on either an 18-day African Journey or the new 23-day Great Game Parks itinerary. Sailing though the Chobe National Park, guests have the chance to see hippos, elephants, buffalo, lions and leopards congregating along the river banks. With just 14 suites, the Zambezi Queen features a reading room, gift shop, internet access, plunge pool, sun deck and shaded area, fine dining restaurant and an open lounge area with panoramic views.

9.    China

The Yangtze River between Yichang and Chongqing is one of the most scenic areas in China. Guests who cruise this 660km stretch of water enjoy an in-depth discovery of the region, including the chance to explore The Ghost City of Fengdu, located at the foothill of Ming Mountain.

TRY THIS: During a cruise here you’ll learn about many local legends and take in a number of fascinating temples and shrines. At Shennong Stream tranquil waters, lush forests and stunning gorges provide an incredible backdrop for a trip out on a traditional sampan (longboat).

10.  France

Is there anything more romantic than cruising the Seine down Paris? Or anything more delicious than sampling truffles, regional produce and wines? Paris to Rouen is an old-time favourite for river cruising but Southern France is becoming an increasingly popular river cruise choice.

TRY THIS: On the stretch of water from Arles to Lyon in Southern France, guests sail through towns and villages, stopping to explore and take in ancient architecture, history and the beauty of the Provencale countryside before arriving at Grignan where they can choose to visit a family-owned lavender estate or head out with dogs in search of truffles before a visit to Grignan Castle for a cocktail and tastings of regional produce as local musicians entertain.

For any APT river cruise bookings and details, phone your nearest Flight Centre store on 1300 939 414 or see www.flightcentre.com.au