Malika Ayurveda Beach Resort

To respond meaningfully to someone’s review, one should have at least some idea of who wrote it. So, a brief word about myself. I am 73 years old, a professor of philosophy with a fair understanding of life and no serious health problems. I’ve spent enough time in places of high status and comfort to realise that these things aren’t what really matters in life. At Malik, I found exactly what I was looking for. It’s not luxurious, nor even of average comfort (a rather old room, clean but well past their prime bathrobes and towels, a leaky roof over two gazebos overlooking the ocean). But, if you’ve learnt anything in life, you’ll realise that’s not what matters most. First and foremost, there’s the wonderful professional, Dr Binod Sydney, and his two assistant doctors. Of course, you can’t be completely cured in 21 days (where could you?), but, firstly, there are personal results, and, secondly, there are the reviews from people who, having tried various clinics, come here specifically. (Take, for example, a man in his early 50s who is successfully treating his psoriasis here and says that the treatment (along with the medication prescribed by the doctor) is enough to enable him to lead a healthy lifestyle for the whole of the coming year). The doctor helped me get rid of persistent itchy patches on my legs, which had developed following thrombophlebitis—itself caused by the COVID-19 vaccine, without which teaching at the university was prohibited in 2020. At Malik’s, although nothing radical was prescribed for me given my age, I experienced a powerful restorative effect. I lost 4.5 kg in three weeks. First and foremost, I had massages twice a day, totalling 2.5 hours. Massages of the whole body, specific areas, and especially the head. Using oils, powders, special solutions applied by hand, and various kinds of hot pads containing healing ingredients. Two lads do the massages, and quite vigorously unless you ask them to go easier. Constant medication. A diet of vegetables, fruit, rice and a few other grains, in portions the size of two cat bowls. Plenty to drink made from the «Indian tea tree». But, strangely enough, I don’t feel like eating. The staff are neat, attentive and efficient. The exchange rate at reception in September 2023 was 81 rupees to the US dollar, even though the bank was offering 81.85; however, there was a queue and a lot of hassle involved, as I had to present not just my passport but a photocopy of it, which I had to get made at some unknown location. The weather from 16 September to 6 October was generally sunny for the most part, but never exceeded 35 degrees, which is easily bearable near the ocean. Overall, compared with the best Russian health resorts in Sochi, Malika comes out on top in terms of its health benefits. I think it’s better value for money too. So if you’re happy with 3-star comfort but want 5+ for the treatment, then this is the place for you. A big thank you to the doctor, the assistants and the staff! If I’m still alive, I’ll be back next year with my wife.