ROBBY M. ALUGAR
There’s something magical about arriving at a resort and instantly feeling the pace of life slow down. That’s exactly what happened the moment we stepped into Crimson Resort and Spa Mactan— a stunning coastal retreat tucked into the shores of Cebu’s celebrated Mactan Island.
From the moment we arrived, the hospitality at Crimson was evident. We were greeted with genuine smiles and warm energy. It wasn’t just professional — it was heartfelt. Before we could even settle in, we were handed a cold towel and Crimson’s signature welcome drink: a refreshingly bold black tea laced with calamansi. Slightly tangy, slightly sweet — it woke up our senses and washed away the travel fatigue in one cool sip.
Our cheerful cart driver, Ivan, picked us up with a smile and the kind of enthusiasm that was honestly contagious. He whisked us off to Room 125, a Garden Deluxe tucked just a short walk from everything — the pool, Azure Beach Club, and most importantly, the beach. There’s something special about being close to the water, where the sea breeze always finds its way to your window.
Special thanks to the resort’s Area Director for PR and Marketing Communications, Ms. Mia Mae Sy who arranged a shower room for us, making our short day tour feel like an extended getaway.
Crimson isn’t just a resort—it’s a tropical sanctuary. Spanning six hectares of beautifully maintained grounds, the resort is wrapped in swaying palms and kissed by the turquoise waters of Mactan Island. It’s hard not to pause and take in the scenery, from the soft ivory sand under your feet to the gentle hush of the waves.
While we stayed in a garden room, the resort also offers private villas with plunge pools — the kind of indulgence perfect for honeymoons or those once-in-a-lifetime escapes.
A Culinary Journey by the Sea
We made our way to Azure Beach Club for lunch, and I’ll say this: come hungry.
We started with the Seafood Tower. Stacked with lobster, tiger prawns, calamari, and scallops, it was both a feast and a centerpiece. Alongside it, we ordered steamed pampano, cooked delicately to perfection, and buttered chicken paired with fragrant biryani rice that delivered flavor in every bite.
Everything — from the plating to the pacing — was done with care.
Sun, Sea & Aqua Zumba
After lunch, it was time to explore what Crimson is really known for — its beach.
The water was warm, clear, and inviting. The sand? Powdery-soft, perfect for walking barefoot. We swam, we lounged, we listened to the waves. And just when we thought we’d slow down for the day, we found ourselves dancing — literally — at an Aqua Zumba class organized by the resort. There’s nothing like laughing and moving with strangers-turned-friends, waist-deep in water, under the late afternoon sun.
The Perfect Ending
Dinner brought us back to Azure — because when the food’s that good, why look elsewhere? This time we opted for a more casual spread: pizza, pork, burgers, and a standout salmon dish. Every plate delivered on flavor and comfort, and it was the perfect ending to a sun-soaked day.
We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to Azure’s staff, especially Mitch Eladro and her team, for the exceptional service they provided during our lunch and dinner. Their attentiveness, professionalism, and warm hospitality truly made our experience special and memorable.
As the night settled over Mactan, the beach lit up with soft ambient lights, and the sound of live music drifted from the bar. We didn’t want the day to end — and in a way, it didn’t. Crimson has a way of staying with you, long after you leave.
Crimson Resort and Spa Mactan isn’t just a place — it’s a feeling. A kind of escape that lets you pause, breathe, and soak in the beauty of the Philippines, one moment at a time. Whether you’re here for a quick day tour or a long luxurious stay, you’ll leave with sand in your shoes and peace in your heart.
