We had read the reviews; over and over. We hoped the experience would be close to that described in numerous glowing memories of Stone Harbor from recent guests, but were certain that it could not meet our lofty hopes. We were wrong.
We echo the feelings of those who came before us - the site, the home, the accommodations, the food, and the staff were all incredible. Standing out most of all during our beautiful week, however, was the staff. Delma's thoughtfulness and amazing (and varied) cooking, her willingness to keep certain dietary preferences in mind (for example, I like my eggs without runny-ness while the rest of my group was the opposite - and she cooked both, even in limited quantities!), and her protectiveness of the group and the property were all noteworthy! Our lovely housekeeper and Second kept things running and even took us on a side excursion to a local waterfall down the beach. Finally, Mr. Tony was everything everyone said he is - kind, servant-hearted, and the hardest worker I've seen in a long time - he kept the property ready for us as soon as we awoke, stayed up after all of us to clean up what we had not (as well as close up), kept the coolers stocked and even made more rum punch when we were sure we were all out!
We felt safe and cared for the entire week, settling into a routine quickly that is hard to get out of upon returning to "real life" (where are our 9 am breakfast bell or the afternoon "cocktails"?!). If you are considering this property, book it. If you are on the fence about the cost-effectiveness, stop thinking and book it. While food was slightly more expensive than I planned, it was almost always one of the best meals I'd ever eaten and there was ALWAYS plenty. When stacked against a similar sized and located all-inclusive, you will not match the price, the level of service, the location, and the personal and private atmosphere that you feel within Stone Harbor's gates.
We hope to return again soon.