Grupo Vidanta, the Latin American resort developer, has recruited a member of MI6, the British secret intelligence service, to promote the attractions of a holiday in Mexico.Â
The agent is that most unusual of things, a famous spy. He acquired international celebrity in the 1960s after foiling a plan launched by a Chinese man with metal hands to disrupt the US’ space mission, and then scotched another plot to drop a nuclear bomb on the US’ gold reserves in Fort Knox. Â
Grupo Vidanta announced their secret plan at a press conference last week. The group has decided to donate an unspecified amount – totalling millions of dollars – to the filming of the new Bond film, "Spectre", whose opening scene takes place in Mexico.Â
The plot involves foiling an evil plan prepared by a shadowy criminal group, SPECTRE, or the Special Executive for Counter-intelligence, Terrorism, Revenge and Extortion.Â
Vidanta’s mission, which is supported by Interjet Airlines and the Mexico Tourism Board, is intended to act as an advertisement for Mexico and boost the hospitality industry.Â
Daniel Chavez, vice president of Grupo Vidanta, told journalists: "Tourism is one of the most important growing sectors for Mexico. We’re proud to be part of the team – from both the private and public sectors – leading the recruitment and development of new entertainment and tourism projects that benefit all of Mexico."Â Â
He said the fact that the special agent had decided to come to Mexico to save the world was "an honour and a testament to the growing appeal of Mexico as a destination. We’re grateful for the opportunity to help bring a new vision of Mexico to life".Â
Filming began this week.Â
Grupo Vidanta operates more than 25 resorts and hotels throughout the country, including Mexico’s first privately owned airport, Mar de Cortes International.Â
MI6 would neither confirm nor deny knowledge of Vidanta’s mission.Â
Photograph: The only known photo of the agent (Caroline Bonarde Ucci/Wikimedia Commons)
