A NEW Oxford guidebook available to buy in seven languages has already been praised by tourists as “quick” and “easy” to use.

Experience Oxfordshire, the organisation that promotes tourism across the county, released the Quick Guide to Oxford at the start of this week after staff said there was a demand for guide books in foreign languages.

Chief executive of Experience Oxfordshire Hayley Beer-Gamage said they were very excited about the new book.

She said: “By developing the publication in seven languages we are hoping that this will also help improve the visitor welcome.

“To be competitive in destination terms we need to be able to adapt to the market. Oxford attracts so many overseas visitors we want to be able to support their visit and ensure they can navigate their way around this wonderful city as easily as possible.”

Guide books in English, German, Japanese and Chinese went on sale on Monday while French, Spanish and Russian editions will follow at the beginning of August. The 24 page guide includes a brief history of the city, information about the University of Oxford, top sights, walking routes and various maps.

Tourist Xu Wei from South China praised the book and said: “The guide is very easy and convenient to use. I found what I was looking for quickly. I think it’s good.”

Guides cost £1.95 and are available at the Visitor Information Centre in Broad Street.