The oo7 production crew working on the latest ( 23rd ) James Bond adventure ” Skyfall”  have arrived in Istanbul after wrapping up filming in Adana, southern Turkey, where they filmed a series of impressive stunts on board moving trains.  By the end of April, Daniel Craig, Sam Mendes and the rest of the first unit are expected to be on location in the bustling neighbourhoods of Istanbul.  Location work will be carried out in Eminönü Square and action is currently taking place on Bankacilar Avenue, with Aynacilar Street, Sultanhamam, and the Grand Bazaar to follow.

Istanbul has always been a facinating and exciting cultural destination for tourists, with many of it’s world renowned attractions located in a relatively compact and walkable area of this historic old city.  Lying along the Bosphorus Strait and extending out on both the European and Asian sides, Istanbul is the only metropolis in the world situated on two continents.  It’s unique position and rich history make it a favourite amongst those wishing to explore the romance & culture of the Byzantine, Ottoman and Turkish eras.

It’s also a  favourite location for the longest running movie franchise in history.  Yes, our old, but not so old friend, James Bond  has returned to the city he first visited is 1963 when filming “From Russia With Love”.  Times have changed and a lot of water has flown along the Bosphorus since those days, when travelling between Istanbul and Venice meant going in style and comfort on the Orient Express.  Savile Row has been replaced by Tom Ford and smoking two packs of unfiltered Turkish cigarettes is no longer considered “cool” or wise but James Bond is going to celebrate his 50th anniversary in style and you can see it in November 2012. Check out these old and new shots!

About Steve Thompson

Steve Thompson is Co-Founder of New Jetsetters with over 20 years experience writing about luxury travel. You might say Steve was “born” with the travel bug. Born in the western foothills of the legendary Black Forest in Germany, he spent the first 12 years of his life tagging along behind his parents as they explored Europe. His first memories are of exploring German castles, and his early childhood education consisted of navigating the Austrian Alps, and mastering equestrian skills at the small sea-side town of Maspalomas, along the Spanish coast. Find out more about Steve below:

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
•