According to an interview with David Benioff in the Swedish-language Metro newspaper, filming will commence in Ireland in October. A translation of the relevant quote: “I loved fantasy until I was 13, 14 years old and then I discovered girls. But George RR Martin’s story is more complex. It’s a more human story than just fighting against evil monsters. As a writer for TV (HBO) I also have a greater say. I’m involved in casting, choosing the director, and so on. We’ll start filming in Ireland in October.”