When Rubin moved to China in 1994, he was surprised to find a dearth of resources for discerning travelers in a country so rich in cultural heritage and natural beauty. He and his wife and partner, Nancy Kim, set out to change that, and now lead China’s most ambitious luxury tour operator. To keep up with the country’s rapid transformation, Rubin is constantly inspecting new hotels—Beijing has seen the arrival of a Waldorf Astoria; a Rosewood and another Mandarin Oriental are still to come—and developing new experiences. In Hangzhou, he can set up a tour of a pharmacy and museum with a practitioner of Chinese medicine; in Shanghai, he’ll arrange a nightlife tour that explores the jazz scene.
Trend watch Rubin has seen increased interest in Chengdu, which is home to the giant panda, the heart of Sichuan cuisine, and the jumping-off point for a visit to the ancient archaeological site of Sanxingdui. A Ritz-Carlton recently opened in the city, and Temple House and a Six Senses are opening soon.
