Questions answered

A tour operator puts the package together, combining transport, accommodation and other services into one product. A travel agent promotes and sells that product, that is, a package already assembled by someone else. The contract must include details of the tour operator.

In Russia, look it up in the unified federal register of tour operators: only legal entities listed there may act as tour operators. If the company is not there, it is better not to buy. In other countries the rules work differently, so check the official register or scheme where you buy.

Yes. Under Russian rules, the contract for a tourist product must be in writing however you buy. Read it before you pay and keep a copy for yourself.

Urgency is not a crime in itself, but it gets in the way of checking the seller. Warning signs: reluctance to name the tour operator, no contract, a request to transfer money to a private individual, and pressure to "decide right now".

On the destination country's official websites: its consulate, embassy or government portal. Rules change, so check them before every trip rather than relying on friends' past experience.

Passport validity requirements are set by the country you are entering and vary from country to country. Check them on that country's official websites and take them into account when planning your dates.

The safest option is the country's official portal only. Many intermediary sites do exactly the same for an extra fee and do not always say so up front.

A child needs their own travel document. If they travel without their parents or with only one of them, consent to travel may be required. Check the procedure in official sources well in advance, and the destination country's requirements on its own websites.

The tour operator that put the package together. Send it a written complaint: describe what happened and state what you want. Keep a copy along with proof that you sent it.

Record the differences: photos, correspondence with the representative, notes of times. Compare them with the contract. When you get home, you will need this material for your complaint to the tour operator.

Give your details, the contract number and date, what went wrong and what you want, and attach copies of documents. Write calmly and stick to the facts. If the reply does not satisfy you or there is none, seek legal advice.

Under Russian rules, a traveller may withdraw from the contract, but the consequences depend on its terms and on the costs actually incurred. Reread the cancellation section and contact the seller and the tour operator in writing as early as possible.