Therapeutic resorts in India attract Koreans

A guest at Devaaya Ayuvera and the Nature Cure Center receives a treatment. / Courtesy of www.devaaya.com

By Kim Se-jeong

“Ayurveda,” in Sanskrit, means life knowledge. Among travelers to India, this word is often associated with traditional therapeutic resorts.

Ayurvedas are customized restful resorts tucked into mountains or on beaches. Among many, ones in Goa in southeast of India carry exceptional recognition. “Ayurveda resorts offer many things — yoga, spas and massages — that completely alleviate your stress,” said Nikhil Desai, managing director of the corporation, during a recent interview with The Korea Times.

It is a must-do item on the Goa Tourism Development Corporation’s website (www.goa-tourism.com).

Devaaya Ayurveda and Nature Cure Center (www.devaaya.com) is one of such places in Goa. It has spa beds, yoga sessions, a swimming pool, a tennis court and nature nearby. More amusing are individual lodgings that resemble colorful houses in fairytales and quality of service, according to the website.

October through January is the off-season due to rain, but guests can have more discounts.

Desai said these resorts are perfect for lone travelers seeking meditation. But they are also popular destinations for couples. Italian and Germans are the most frequent visitors, according to the website.

The fact that Devaaya Ayurveda and the Nature Cure Center are located in Goa adds value, for it, as many Indians say, is the most beautiful part of India.

Portuguese colonized the region and their influence made the place an attractive destination, both among Indians and outsiders.

“Goa is right in the middle between Europe and India,” said one French traveler. “It’s beautiful and safe.”

In Goa, safety is not a thing to worry about, while in the rest of India, safety is a major problem for travelers, especially female travelers.

“We are different. We’ve had travelers coming for a long time. So we know what to do,” said Desai.

For Koreans, Goa is still a new place. Less than 1,000 travel to Goa. And that’s why Desai was in Seoul in September, promoting tourism in Goa.

“There is no direct flight, but you won’t forget your experience. Please come and visit Goa,” he said.

skim@ktimes.co.kr