The writers of a newly-translated book on shopping in Rome insist it is more than just another run-of-the-mill guide.

Nina -Your Guide to Shopping in Rome includes features such as walking itineraries, which take in architecture and history, as you hunt for the next bargain.

Those daunted by the breadth of choice have the task made simpler: the guide is divided into shopping areas such as Prati, Parioli and Trastevere. There are also clear sections ranging from delicacies where to get the best

cheeses, chocolates and jams to the basics of shirts, pullovers and shoes.

The guide is now available in English and aimed at tourists and English-speaking residents alike.

Elisabetta Calmanti, one of the writers, said: Were sure that many tourists dont have time to walk around the city trying to find the best shops and the guide should help them; its also for those living here who might not know about places offering something a bit different and often at a good price.

Calmanti, who is from Tuscany and has lived in Rome for 20 years, added that the independence of the guide was assured by the decision not to have shops advertising across the pages. Instead, support was offered by the Provincia di Roma and Posteitaliane, the Italian post office.

The guide was translated by American Jennifer Zaid, a friend of Calmantis and an avid shopper, and by Italian Sabina Zambon.

Translations into Japanese, Spanish and Arabic are also being discussed.

Nina is the first book published by Vipsania, a Rome-based company set up in May 2004 by five friends including Calmanti under the presidency of Daria Lucca, who was a journalist for the Communist Italian daily Il Manifesto for 20 years.

Vipsania has previously focused on arranging private tours of Rome; it is continuing this work while further books are being planned. The guide is available at newsstands and bookshops including The Anglo American Bookshop in Via della Vite 102, The Almost Corner Bookshop in Via del Moro 45 and Feltrinelli International in Via V.E. Orlando 84.

Nina -Your Guide to Shopping in Rome. Vipsania. e5.