Birthday present for best friend

Gettingtherequickly

Hi, while this may not be the best place for this, I also know that I will get good ideas and will not be slated!

My best friend is male and lives abroad, I'm female. I am stuck on what to get him for his birthday and don't want to buy clothes yet again. I know there are lots of things that I could and would happily buy for him, but have got to factor in something very important, his wife! While I would never, ever do anything to compromise his marriage, I am not sure that his wife trusts me in that sense so I have to be wary of what I get. Last year I asked him what he would like and he asked for a new watch, I know what his taste is like and he trusts mine, so although we were both very comfortable with it, don't think she was.

Have had the same conversation for this year, and while his suggestion that I go there on holiday and be there for his birthday is something I would love to do, for practical reasons, can't do that, so any suggestions from you lovely people?

bossymoo

Does believe somewhere it's difficult to get hold of certain British brands / things? Maybe you could do him a little hamper? I occasionally send my brother beef oxo cubes, haha, and he likes TM Lewin shirts, and a particular type of shower gel, that he can't get in Singapore.

Of course, postage cost should be factored in too...

Fruball

What about tickets to an event local to them that he and his wife can go to.

I'm sure his wife would think it was a thoughtful gift and may view you less suspiciously

j.e.j.

Yes I think you need to steer well clear of presents that could be construed to be a romantic gesture!

Maybe as the above poster says get him some stuff that he perhaps can't buy where he's living now?

kittycat204

I was thinking like Frugal, could you not pay for them something to do together. An experience, or meal. Rather than an item. It's a difficult situation. Could you not ask her what he might like, then you have a bonding chat, as best you can. you know she will approve of what you get then too.

bravobeastie

Yup I 2nd (or is that 3rd?) the 'something for them to do together'

I think if I was in the wifes shoes I would find that less 'threatening'

Pink.

As this thread has now dropped down the Old Style board I've moved it over to the Special Occasions board to see if you can get more advice,

Pink