Checking out of hotels can bring nasty surprises. That’s when you find out the shocking amount the meals, snacks and tipples have added to the bill. That’s when you wonder: wouldn’t it be more sensible to pay one price upfront that covers all your food and drink, so you could just relax while you’re away?

Fine in theory, but there’s a problem. Many all-inclusives are tacky resorts that tag you with a plastic wristband and serve buffet food that will test the efficacy of your Imodium tablets.

Many, but not all. We’ve found some stylish alternatives that deliver peace of mind and quality at the same time. At these all-inclusives, you’ll find personal butlers, Michelin-starred chefs and complimentary massages — but definitely no wristbands.

All prices are per person for a week, flying from London, unless stated

CHILD-FRIENDLY IN GREECE

When the kids demand yet another round of extortionately priced fizzy drinks, your love can be sorely tested. The unlimited snacks and ice cream at Sani Beach Club in Halkidiki should keep the parental pecker up. The club is set in a chichi marina complex: rooms have been smartly refurbished, the kids’ club has it all, from darts to diving, and you can dine at most of the marina’s restaurants.

From £433 (based on four sharing a family room); Kids in the Med (0845 277 3300, kidsinthemed.com ). Book by March 31

SCENIC IN TURKEY

The blue lagoon at Olu Deniz, framed by the towering Taurus Mountains, is the Mediterranean’s most photographed beach, and the Hotel Meri has the distinction of being the sole hotel within the Olu Deniz National Park. It’s only a three-star, but it has a private beach and a choice of three restaurants, and its simple rooms are tiered up an olive-tree-studded hillside to provide an endless supply of drop-dead gorgeous views.

From £549; Anatolian Sky (0845 365 1011, anatoliansky.co.uk )

TOTAL RELAXATION IN ANATOLIA

Sometimes, location alone makes all-inclusive the sensible option. Take the Hillside Beach Club. It is set on a beautiful private bay, surrounded by slopes of pine, and after a busy day of doing, erm, nothing, how likely are you to fancy the three-mile hike into Fethiye for dinner? The hotel is large (330 rooms), but the layout makes it feel intimate and there are three beaches to ensure nowhere feels unduly crowded. The all-in deal is limited to the buffet restaurant (you pay for drinks at the more romantic Pasha on the Bay and the Beach Bar). A word of caution: the evening entertainment sometimes continues until late.

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