Think of Assouline’s latest book as a travel guide to the world of 007.
The publisher’s new tome, James Bond Destinations, gives fans an up-close look at the beaches, ski slopes, and forests the British spy has traversed in the action-packed film series. The franchise has filmed at more than 100 locations globally over the last 60 years, ranging from monasteries in Greece, palaces in India, and even ancient Egyptian temples.
The 328-page tome was written by journalist—and die-hard 007 fan—Daniel Pembrey. Weighing six pounds, it features a luxe silk-wrapped hardcover and houses 233 illustrations and original photography. These include visuals of Ursula Andress emerging from Jamaican waters, Daniel Craig’s high-speed car chase in Rome, and Roger Moore’s showdown on a Sugarloaf cable car in Rio.
James Bond Destinations
BUY NOW ON ASSOULINE: US$120/HK$940
James Bond Destinations also explores the world behind the scenes. Set images from Casino Royale and Skyfall both feature cast and crew side by side near a European lake and on a London rooftop, respectively. The book also shares the stories of how the filmmakers discovered various locations, and transformed travel hotspots for filming. Producer Michael G. Wilson, for instance, famously got Venice’s Grand Canal closed for the first time in centuries to permit Daniel Craig’s Bond to sail unobstructed in a scene for Casino Royale.
Books are great, but if you want to take the action one step further, there are plenty of experiences that may suit thrill-seekers better than turning pages. Back in March, Black Tomato launched a new James Bond-inspired itinerary that spans five European destinations from Austria to Monaco. Dubbed “The Assignment,” the bespoke and 12-night experience offerings allow you to train with Craig’s stunt double, visit filming sites including Big Ben, and even explore the Bollinger estate outside of Paris. Prices start at US$18,500 (HK$144,875). Your own copy of Assouline’s James Bond Destinations, however, will only run you US$120 (HK$940).