You've saved thousands on LASIK and now you have 5-7 days to explore Medellín. The catch? You need to protect your eyes and avoid certain activities. Here's how to enjoy the city within recovery guidelines.
Days 1-2: Take It Easy
The first 48 hours are about rest. Your eyes are healing rapidly, and the best thing you can do is sleep, use your drops, and avoid screens.
Good activities:
- Listen to podcasts or audiobooks
- Gentle walks around El Poblado (with sunglasses)
- Sit in outdoor cafes and enjoy the perfect weather
- Get a massage at a spa (avoid steam rooms)
Days 3-7: Light Exploration
By day 3-4, most patients feel comfortable doing light sightseeing. Your vision is much better, though you may still have some fluctuation and light sensitivity. Sunglasses are essential.
Recovery-Friendly Activities
Museums & Cultural Sites
- Museo de Antioquia — Fernando Botero's famous sculptures and paintings. Indoor, air-conditioned, no strain on eyes.
- Plaza Botero — 23 bronze Botero sculptures you can see from the museum entrance. Quick outdoor visit.
- Museo Casa de la Memoria — Powerful museum about Colombia's history. Indoor, contemplative.
- El Castillo Museum — Beautiful castle and gardens. Shaded grounds, easy walking.
Food Experiences
- El Poblado restaurants — World-class dining scene. Dim, romantic lighting is actually perfect for light-sensitive eyes.
- Coffee shops — Colombia is coffee country. Sit in Pergamino, Hija Mia, or Café Velvet.
- Food tour (walking) — Several operators offer 3-hour walking tours through markets and restaurants.
Relaxation
- Botanical Garden (Jardín Botánico) — Shaded walking paths, beautiful orchids. Free entry.
- Parque Arví — Take the Metrocable gondola for stunning views (wear sunglasses). Easy walking trails at the top.
- Spa day — Many hotels and spas offer packages. Avoid steam rooms and saunas.
What to Avoid
Not Recommended During Recovery
- ✕ Swimming — No pools, hot tubs, or ocean for at least 2 weeks
- ✕ Dusty hiking trails — Dust can irritate healing eyes
- ✕ Intense sun exposure — Always wear sunglasses outdoors
- ✕ Nightclubs — Smoky environments, strobing lights
- ✕ Paintball/adventure sports — Risk of eye trauma
- ✕ Makeup — Wait until week 2
Medellín's Perfect Climate
One of the best things about recovering in Medellín is the weather. Known as the "City of Eternal Spring," temperatures stay between 62-78°F year-round with average humidity around 65%. Compare that to:
- Miami in summer: 90°F+, 75%+ humidity — uncomfortable for healing eyes
- Turkey: Variable weather, hot and dry summers can worsen dry eye
- Your hometown: Might be freezing cold or blazing hot depending on season
Medellín's mild climate means you can be outside comfortably, which makes recovery feel less like being stuck indoors.
Day Trip: Guatapé (After Day 5)
If you're feeling good by day 5-6, consider a day trip to Guatapé — a colorful lakeside town about 2 hours from Medellín. You can:
- See the famous colorful zócalos (painted tiles) on buildings
- Climb El Peñón (740 steps — only if you feel up to it)
- Take a boat tour of the lake
- Enjoy lunch with stunning views
Tip: Book a tour so you don't have to drive. Wear sunglasses and bring artificial tears.
Where to Stay
El Poblado is the best neighborhood for LASIK patients:
- Walking distance to major clinics
- Excellent restaurants and cafes
- Safe and well-lit streets
- Many hotel options from $50-$200/night
Recommended areas within El Poblado: Parque Lleras (more nightlife), Provenza (trendy restaurants), Manila (quieter, residential).
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