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Federal Tourism Agency to assist Alfa Voyage tourists

Executive Director of the Association of Russian Tour Operators Maya Lomidze said that Alfa Voyage obtained the majority of its tours from Pegas Touristik, Tez Tour and Mostravel

MOSCOW, September 6 (Itar-Tass) —— The Federal Tourism Agency will assist the payment of refunds to tourists, who have suffered from the suspended activity of the Alfa Voyage tour operator, which announced financial problems on Monday.

The agency said that the tourists could apply for information to its hotline (+7 495 607 3949) and promised legal aid.

It is also possible to receive consultations from the Federal Consumer Rights and Human Health Service by phone +7 495 621 7076.

Executive Director of the Association of Russian Tour Operators Maya Lomidze said that Alfa Voyage obtained the majority of its tours from Pegas Touristik, Tez Tour and Mostravel.

More than 100 tourists have suffered from the Alfa Voyage financial problems, the Association of Russian Tour Operators reported earlier in the day.

The company said on Monday it was unable to meet its commitments to tourists, whose vacations started from September 3, 2011.

The Association said that the number of affected tourists was approximate so far. “Although Alfa Voyage is registered as a tour operator, it does not have its own tours but resells tours of large companies and agencies,” the Association said. One of the tour operators said it had about 100 clients from Alfa Voyage with unpaid vouchers in the period through November.

The Ariadna insurance company insured Alfa Voyage to a sum of 60 million. The insurer makes no comment on the terms and period of possible claims from tourists. It says the procedures are being negotiated with the tour operator. There is information that Alfa Voyage is seeking funds to continue its operation.