As we head towards the traditional peak holiday booking period, we are reminded of our consumer rights by Adam Mortimer, from the UK European Consumer Centre (UK ECC). Calls from travellers asking UK ECC for help have increased.

Adam reveals the numbers and the common complaints. He also offers advice on how to book and how to complain.

Thomas Cook is the latest travel company to announce a welfare policy for animals at attractions. This follows the tour company's decision to ban elephant rides in February.

The new policy is based on ABTA's guides for animal welfare which was launched a couple of years ago. ABTA spokesperson, Sean Tipton, explains why ABTA put this together and what it covers.

From 1/1/2017, there will be an audit of animal attractions sold by Thomas Cook, those that fail will be put on stop sale.

It doesn't cover all animals used at ticketed events. For example, Thomas Cook Sport will still sell trips to the Grand National (11 horses killed since 2000).

The Born Free Foundation is working with both ABTA and Thomas Cook in educating travellers in animal welfare.

Daniel Turner, associate director of tourism and EU compliance, Born Free Foundation, explains how Born Free has changed the way it communicates with the travel industry to raise awareness of the poor conditions for animals at some tourist attractions.

He also says that the welfare of all animal is important and that Born Free will investigate reports of animal abuse no matter where or how.

Travel news has THREE Airbnb stories.