Preparation for Your Karlovy Vary Drinking Cure

Before you start, you must get the right equipment. The most important item is a traditional porcelain spa cup. You can find many shops where to buy porcelain spa cups in Karlovy Vary near the colonnades. These cups have a special shape with a spout handle. This design helps you sip the water slowly. It also protects your teeth from mineral stains.

Never use plastic bottles for the hot mineral water. The high temperature can cause plastic to release toxins. Porcelain is natural and keeps the water at the right temperature. It is also part of the local tradition in this UNESCO World Heritage city. Carrying a cup makes you feel like a local spa guest. It is a functional souvenir you can keep forever.

Wear comfortable walking shoes for your cure. You will spend a lot of time moving between different springs. Bring a small bag to carry your cup between sessions. Most people also carry a small bottle of plain water. This helps to rinse your mouth after drinking the mineral water. Preparation makes the whole experience much more relaxing.

• Checklist:
• Traditional porcelain spa cup
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Small bottle of plain water for rinsing
• A map of the colonnades
• A prescribed schedule from a doctor

Essential Steps for How to Follow the Drinking Cure Properly

Following the cure is a ritual that requires patience. You cannot simply gulp down the water and leave. The minerals need time to absorb into your system. Most locals follow a strict routine every morning and afternoon. This consistency is the key to seeing health results. Follow these steps to ensure you are doing it correctly.

1. Consult a doctor: Visit a spa physician for a 30-minute checkup. Cost is typically $40–$70. Do this at your spa hotel. Mistake to avoid: Choosing springs yourself without medical advice.
2. Purchase a cup: Buy a porcelain cup from a colonnade stall. This takes 10 minutes and costs $10–$25. Mistake to avoid: Using a plastic cup or bottle.
3. Fill your cup: Walk to the assigned spring and fill your cup halfway. This is free and takes 2 minutes. Mistake to avoid: Filling a large container to drink later.
4. Sip and walk: Take small sips while walking slowly through the colonnade. Spend 20 minutes on one cup. Mistake to avoid: Sitting down or drinking the water too fast.

Walking is a vital part of the process. The movement helps your body process the minerals effectively. Most people walk the length of the colonnade twice per cup. This gentle exercise also aids digestion. It turns the cure into a mindful meditation session. You will notice many people doing the same thing around you.

The timing of your drinks also matters. Usually, you should drink the water 30 to 60 minutes before a meal. This prepares your stomach for food. Avoid eating snacks while you are drinking the mineral water. Let the water work on its own for the best effect. Most doctors suggest doing this three times a day.

Choosing the Right Springs and Logistics

Karlovy Vary has over 12 main springs with different properties. The main difference between them is the temperature. Hotter springs usually have more carbon dioxide. They are often used for chronic stomach issues. Cooler springs are better for gallbladder and liver health. You should learn which Karlovy Vary spring water should I drink before you start. Each spring is numbered for easy identification.

The official tourism site lists the mineral content of each source. If you are in town for only one day, visit the Mill Colonnade. It houses several springs with varying temperatures. This allows you to taste a few different types in one place. Start with the coolest one to see how your body reacts. If you have a week, follow a doctor's specific plan.

Decision Guide: If you have 1–2 days, focus on the Mill and Market Colonnades for a general experience. If you have 7+ days, book a stay at a spa hotel. They will provide a professional medical guide. Short-term visitors should only drink small amounts (100ml) at a time. Long-term guests may drink up to 1.5 liters daily under supervision. Always listen to your body’s signals.

Logistics are simple because the city is walkable. Most springs are located in the pedestrian zone. You do not need a car to access the main colonnades. Public transport is available if your hotel is on the hill. The city is designed for people to wander between the water sources. This makes the cure very accessible for everyone.

Local Rules and Etiquette at the Colonnades

The colonnades are considered places of healing and quiet. You should respect the peaceful atmosphere while you drink. Avoid loud talking or playing music on your phone. Most people enjoy the silence or the sound of the local orchestra. This mental relaxation is part of the total cure. It helps lower stress levels while the water works.

There are strict rules against smoking and drinking alcohol near the springs. These substances interfere with the mineral water's effects. You should also avoid using the springs to wash your hands. The taps are only for filling drinking vessels. To see the best route, try a Karlovy Vary colonnades walking tour. This will show you the etiquette at each specific location.

Be patient when waiting for your turn at a tap. Some springs are more popular than others. Do not push or rush the person in front of you. Most people take just enough to fill their small cup. If you see a long line, move to a different spring nearby. The Visit Czechia website offers more tips on local spa culture. Respecting these norms ensures a pleasant experience for all guests.

Do not bring pets directly to the spring taps. While the city is pet-friendly, the drinking areas must stay hygienic. Keep your dog on a short lead away from the water. Always clean up after your pet in the parks. This helps maintain the beauty of the spa district. Most visitors appreciate the clean and orderly environment.

Troubleshooting Common Drinking Cure Issues

Many first-time visitors experience minor side effects. The high mineral content can be a shock to the system. Do not worry if you feel a bit different on the first day. Your body is simply adjusting to the new intake. However, you should stop if you feel significant pain. Most issues can be solved by changing the water temperature.

A common problem is the strong metallic taste. This comes from the iron and sulfur in the water. Rinsing your mouth with plain water helps a lot. Some people find that drinking through the spout of the cup reduces the taste. It bypasses the front of the tongue where many taste buds are. This makes the ritual much easier to maintain.

If you experience digestive upset, talk to your doctor immediately. They might suggest a different spring or a smaller dose. Crowds can also be a challenge during peak summer months. Try visiting the colonnades early in the morning. The air is fresh and the lines are much shorter. This makes your morning cure much more enjoyable.

• Common Problems:
• Mild diarrhea or loose stools
• Metallic or salty aftertaste
• Feeling bloated after drinking
• Staining on teeth (if not using a straw/spout)
• Dizziness from the heat of the water
• Overcrowded taps during the afternoon
• Confusion about which spring is which
• Dehydration if not drinking enough plain water