Top 6 James Bond Filming Locations: Iconic Spots to Live Like 007
James Bond, the iconic superspy 007, has captivated audiences with his globe-trotting adventures since the 1962 film Dr. No. From luxurious resorts to thrilling dams, here are six must-visit destinations to immerse yourself in the world of Bond, as recommended by travel expert Michael Alpiner.
1. Stay at GoldenEye Resort in Jamaica
GoldenEye Resort and Spa in Oracabessa Bay, Jamaica, is where it all began. Author Ian Fleming purchased and designed his villa here in the early 1950s, penning all 14 original Bond novels during his stays. Acquired by Island Records founder Chris Blackwell in the 1970s, the property now features beach and lagoon villas, cottages, and huts. Book the exclusive Fleming Villa for up to 10 guests, complete with a private butler, chef, spa access, and resort activities.
2. Bungee Jump from Switzerland's Contra Dam
In Pierce Brosnan's 1995 film GoldenEye, Bond's daring dam dive (filmed at Switzerland's Contra Dam in Ticino, standing in for Russia) sets the tone. Experience the thrill yourself with Trekking Team AG via GetYourGuide. Leap 220 meters from one of the world's steepest dam faces, with stunning views of Italy on clear days.
3. Tee Off at Stoke Park, Goldfinger's Golf Club
Stoke Park, a luxurious stately home hotel in England's Buckinghamshire, starred in Goldfinger as the venue for Bond's golf match against Auric Goldfinger (complete with Oddjob's deadly bowler hat). Guests can play the renowned 27-hole championship course and use the state-of-the-art Swing Studio, featuring V1 software for instant swing analysis on plasma screens—even in poor weather.
4. Island-Hop in Thailand's Phang Nga Bay
Phang Nga Bay's dramatic limestone karsts featured prominently in The Man with the Golden Gun, where Bond confronts Scaramanga on Khao Phing Kan (James Bond Island). While landings are restricted, local tours offer paddleboat excursions into Ao Phang Nga National Park. Book ahead for these popular full-day (8-hour) adventures.
5. Visit London's Historic Reform Club
The Reform Club, a lavish 1836-founded gentlemen's club in London, hosted Bond's intense fencing duel in Die Another Day (filmed as Blades Club, with Madonna's cameo). Non-members can join free weekday morning tours to admire the opulent interiors.
6. Sip a Vodka Martini at Duke's Hotel
Tucked in Mayfair, this 5-star boutique hotel near Buckingham Palace welcomed Bond creator Ian Fleming, a regular guest and nearby Carlton Club member. Legend has it he inspired the famous "shaken, not stirred" vodka martini at Duke's exclusive bar (dress code enforced). With 90 rooms exuding Old World charm, it's a perfect London retreat.
Michael Alpiner is a columnist at Forbes.com, co-editor of ExtremeLuxuryGetaways.com, and contributor to New York Lifestyles Magazine. He is also a writing professor at Touro College in New York.
