6 Ways to Manage International Relationships Online

Credits: This post originally appeared on the American Express OPEN Forum, where Mashable regularly contributes articles about leveraging social media and technology in small business. We found this article on Mashable and I thought it should be blogged about…

Sometimes the hardest part of having international clients is finding a way to connect with them. Small businesses often have to worry about different time zones, different languages, and even different customs and traditions.

While there’s no catch-all, golden resource that can solve every problem a small internationally-minded business could have, there are some easy ways to keep your business up-to-date and in the overseas loop.

Here, we’ll help you through the basic steps of interacting with overseas clients, from translating pleasantries to tracking shipments to making sure you don’t accidentally call them in the middle of the night.

1. Basic Information

Before you even get started, it’s important to know the basic information about your client’s country. Usually the most thorough and reliable way to bone up is through the country’s official webpage. England, for example, has a good site with lots of information. Unfortunately, most of these sites are geared towards tourism and less so the time-pressed businessperson.

Wikipedia can actually be a great, quick and comprehensive alternative. Wikipedia pages exist for most major countries and include a helpful info bar on the right side of the page (usually just below the country’s flag). This information includes official languages, government make up, population estimates, GDP, currency, time zone, and calling code.

Also check out The World Factbook, maintained by the CIA. It includes “information on the history, people, government, economy, geography, communications, transportation, military, and transnational issues for 266 world entities,” according to their website.

2. Time Difference

No one likes getting a business call at 3 A.M., especially when you thought it was scheduled for 3 o’clock in the afternoon. Time zones and time differences can be difficult to remember on the fly, especially if you’re handling international clients from more than one country.

Time Zone Converter is one way to keep all your zones and time differences in check. The site lets you convert any time from a huge range of possible countries and zones. Ever wanted to know what time it is in Moscow, Russia when it’s 11:25 A.M. in Dublin, Ireland? (The answer is 2:25 P.M.). You can also look up time differences on specific days, perfect for future meetings or conference calls that might overlap with tricky shifts in daylight savings. One catch: Zones are described by their central cities, so you’ll still be able to convert even if you don’t see your home town.

World Time Zone is a more graphical display of time zones across the globe. You can either eyeball the map, based on Greenwich Mean Time, look up relative times in world capitals, sort according to continent, or simply type in the place you’re looking for. With an impressive, nearly exhaustive list of cities, if World Time Zone doesn’t have it, it probably doesn’t exist.

Lastly, if you’re in a hurry, you can alway use Google. All you have to do is search “time City, State, Country,”. For example, if you “time Atlanta, GA” Google tells you the time right now in Atlanta.

3. Translation

Quoi? Qué? Huh? No matter how you say it, it’s important to speak a little of your client’s home tongue. Fortunately, there are some simple ways to pick up some pleasantries without taking a night class.

Some basic often-used options include Yahoo! Babel Fish, Bing’s Translator and Google Translate (complete with its own drag and drop buttons). All three are easy to use, but a little slow when in the middle of a chat, and are best employed in emails. Word of caution: Though the language range is impressive, and usually spot on, sometimes idioms and complicated sentences can throw off the accuracy. For example, the phrase: “So great speaking with you again!” translated into French on Babel Fish reads “Parler tellement grand avec vous encore” (To still speak so large with you again!).

Google also has some translation bots you can add into your Google Chat. By adding a series of coded bots as friends in Google Chat, you can send quick IMs to be translated. For example, en2fr@bot.talk.google.com will translate from English “2″ French. This is helpful when you need a sentence quickly, or when you’re typing an IM.

4. Chat Services

Phoning long distance can rack up bills pretty quickly. Free chat services like Skype, Google Chat and Campfire are fast, effective, and accepted ways to speak with your clients. Skype is an instant messenger with a built-in web-video function. You can use it as either a phone, IM chat, or for face-to-face discussion online. After both parties set up an account, the whole process is free and relatively pain free. Also, some phone and portable devices have Skype enabled so you can take the chat service with you. Google Chat offers similar services to Skype, with expanded video and phone options being included.

Campfire is a message-based business group chat and file-sharing service. Campfire has more customizable options than Skype or Google Chat but requires a monthly payment. It is also tailored for people within a business — meaning it might be the perfect option if you have an office overseas and don’t mind the monthly fee.

5. Shipping

Nobody like shipping things, but it is a necessary evil. While you might have to slog through getting your package to the post, a couple sites can help you track how and when it gets to your clients. TrackThis, TrackthePack, and Packagetrackr are online services that let you track shipments by email, text message, Facebook or Twitter. All three sites track major US shipping carriers like FedEx, UPS and DHL Global Mail by looking up your tracking code. Packagetrackr promises all the same services as the other two but will auto-detect your tracking code when you email your shipping confirmation to its email address. And as an added bonus, TrackThisPack has an iPhone app.

6. Cultural Faux-Pas

When dealing with other cultures, it’s important to know what is in good taste and what is considered bad etiquette. For example, it’s best not to invite your Indian client to a steak house without first asking (cattle are sacred for Hindus) or to give your Russian client an even number of flowers as a thank you (even numbers are reserved for funerals). There are a variety of ways to find these customs and traditions on independent sites, About.com or Kwintessential’s extremely helpful international etiquette guide. Often, the best way to gauge foreign customs is by politely asking about anything you’re unsure of.

These resources can help you connect with your international clients and improve the reach of your small business. While this post focused on web-only resources, there are many other resources out there and ways to connect. Please add your favorite resources, hidden gems and best tips in the comments below.

Image courtesy of iStockphoto, AlexMax

Summer BBQ

A man’s favorite thing to do is bringing out his toys… so clean them off and start-up the grills boys its BBQ-ing Season!…Yes I know grilling isn’t always for the men, but there are so many other things to plan for the BBQ , so just leave the grilling to the men, shall we.

Grilling has taken to the water! It’s been around for a while but it was just introduced to me recently and boy did I enjoy the steak and sausages I ate while relaxing at the  sandbar near Bal Harbor.

GrillsForBoats.com, the Ultimate Headquarters for grilling on the water. Grills For Boats focuses its efforts on satisfying your hunger and needs while at sea. They carry a tremendous selection of Boat Grills, Boat Filet Tables & Boat Coolers. So check out their products, fire up the boat grill, and put some drinks in the cooler.

Don’t think you were ready for this one a Floating BBQ …what a great idea for a small party of friends to enjoy. The BBQ Donut is what i think pure genius. what more information on this floating restaurant, check it out on EliteChoice.com

Getting ready for your annual BBQ or the whole family is just coming over to enjoy a relaxed evening -here are some design ideas and some tips for an effective BBQ in style.

Food Coverage:

here’s an idea. Ever thought of having your BBQ catered and all you have to do is enjoy the food.

Advanced Catering Concepts

Advanced Catering Concepts has all your catering needs for any event that you want , but today we’re focusing on BBQ’s  and they have a selection of menus to choose from to meet your needs. Just lay back and have the experts do all the work.

Example of their Standard BBQ Menu

• Traditional BBQ Suasages with Tomato Sauce
• Sizzling Beef Burgers with Caramelized Onions
• Spicy Thai Chicken Patties with Plum Suace
• variety of Gourmet Sausages with Mustards
• Vegetable Burgers with Tomatie Relish (v)
• Four Salads
• BBQ Lamb Chops with Mint Jelly

Here are some cool recipes that we stumbled across as well.

Recipes:

Photograph by Tina Rupp

1. Spicy Hoisin-Glazed Ribs (Food Network)

Directions

Prepare the ribs the night before: Trim the membrane from the back of 2 racks (about 4 pounds) St. Louis pork ribs. Then make the rub: Whisk 1 cup rice vinegar, 1/4 cup soy sauce, 3 tablespoons chopped ginger, 5 chopped garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon sesame oil and 1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder; coat the ribs with the mixture and refrigerate overnight. Preheat a grill to medium-high on one side and place a drip pan under the cooler side. Set the ribs over the drip pan (use a rib rack, if you have one). Cover, making sure the vent holes are directly over the ribs; cook for 3 hours, or until the meat pulls back from the bones. To make the sauce, whisk 1/2 cup hoisin sauce, 2 to 3 tablespoons Asian chili sauce and 1 tablespoon water; brush onto the meat and cook over direct heat until glazed. Cut the racks into ribs and sprinkle with sliced scallions and sesame seeds.

2. Marinated Grilled Shrimp (Allrecipes.com)

Ingredients

• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 2 pounds fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
• skewers

Directions

1. In a large bowl, stir together the garlic, olive oil, tomato sauce, and red wine vinegar. Season with basil, salt, and cayenne pepper. Add shrimp to the bowl, and stir until evenly coated. Cover, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour, stirring once or twice.
2. Preheat grill for medium heat. Thread shrimp onto skewers, piercing once near the tail and once near the head. Discard marinade.
3. Lightly oil grill grate. Cook shrimp on preheated grill for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until opaque.

3. Grilled Peaches and Cream

Ingredients

• 4 peaches, halved and pitted
• 2 tablespoons clover honey
• 1 cup soft cream cheese with honey and nuts
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Directions

1. Preheat a grill for medium-high heat.
2. Brush peaches with a light coating of oil. Place pit side down onto the grill. Grill for 5 minutes, or until the surfaces have nice grill marks. Turn the peaches over, and drizzle with a bit of honey. Place a dollop of the cream cheese spread in the place where the pit was. Grill for 2 to 3 more minutes, or until the filling is warm. Serve immediately.

Decor:

Often with barbecues, we think of the traditionally fun red and white checkered linens on picnic tables. Effective as they are, they are too common.

Table Ideas:

Image : epicurious.com

Or maybe even a Waterfront Cookout check out Country Living

Get with the VIBE this summer and host a BBQ!

Becoming An American Citizen

We here at the VIBE just wanted to congratulate one of our team members for becoming a Citizen !

If you’re in the process of ,or beginning the process here is some information to get you started.

Citizenship Through Naturalization

[Source: US Citizenship and Immigrant Service Government Website]

Naturalization is the process by which U.S. citizenship is granted to a foreign citizen or national after he or she fulfills the requirements established by Congress in the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA).

In most cases, an applicant for naturalization must be a permanent resident (green card holder) before filing.  Except for certain U.S. military members and their dependents, naturalization can only be granted in the United States.

You May Qualify for Naturalization if:

• You have been a permanent resident for at least 5 years and meet all other eligibility requirements. See the “General Path to Naturalization” link under “Citizenship by Naturalization” to the left.
• You have been a permanent resident for 3 years or more and meet all eligibility requirements to file as a spouse of a U.S. citizen. See the “Spouses of U.S. Citizens” link under “Citizenship by Naturalization” to the left.
• You have qualifying service in the U.S. armed forces and meet all other eligibility requirements. See the “Information for Members of the Military and Their Families” link to the right.
• Your child may qualify for naturalization if you are a U.S. citizen, the child was born outside the U.S., the child is currently residing outside the U.S., and all other eligibility requirements are met.

Note: You may also qualify through other paths to naturalization if you do not qualify through the paths described on the links to the left. See the “A Guide to Naturalization” link to the right. Chapter 4 of the guide discusses who is eligible for Naturalization.

How to Apply for Naturalization

• Prepare for taking the naturalization test before you apply. We have educational materials and resources to help you prepare. For more information, see the “Naturalization Test” link to the left.
• For applicants eligible pursuant to sections 316, 319, 328, and 329 of the INA, file Form N-400, Application for Naturalization. Find Form N-400 in the “Citizenship and Naturalization Based Forms” link to the right. For more information, see the “How Do I Apply for U.S. Citizenship” link to the right.
• Applicants eligible pursuant to sections 328 and 329 of the INA should also file Form N-426, Request for Certification of Military or Naval Service, and Form G-325B, Biographic Information.
• For a child eligible pursuant to section 322 of the INA, a Form N-600K, Application for Citizenship and Issuance of Certificate Under Section 322, may be filed on behalf of the child.

Note: You may already be a U.S. citizen and not need to apply for naturalization if your biological or adoptive parent(s) became a U.S. citizen before you reached the age of 18.  See the “Citizenship through Parents” link to the left.

“Eclipse” Special VIBE Edition

The third part of the saga finally comes out to theaters June 30th, 2010 . Time to start planning your Eclipse  Event.

While browsing I noticed that a lot of people have been inspired by this saga and created magical events focusing on dominate themes throughout the films.

Take a peek- look at some of the things people have done:

This wedding went all out and will captivate you and go with any theme that goes with apples…

These blogs give great tips and ideas to do it yourself at home!

The main elements of this particular Twilight party were:

• mood lighting created with white twinkle lights & candles
• red (blood-themed) cocktails, favors, & drinks
• apples & Italian food
• framed quotes from the book & movie (pictured at top & below), which I dressed up a bit in photoshop, then printed out & framed. (The framed quote above is a line from the movie that Edward says when he catches an apple in a manner that mimics the book cover.)…. Want more? Check it out: Hostess

This blog had some pretty cool ideas for goodie bags/ party favors

A handful of the New Moon party-goers organized ahead of time to create a goodie bag item (Twilight-themed) to exchange at the big party… Want more ? Check it out: I Need More Glitter

Clips and Trailers:

Allow for the third video to fully buffer and then  Enjoy!

Those of you who have read the books obviously know who Bella chooses , but who would you prefer her to choose?

Valerie Bihet :NBC 6- South Florida Today Interview Special

Topic of the Interview:

A fabulous and financially feasible girl’s night out/in party that promises to keep friends entertained.

Valerie Bihet, Director of The Vibe Agency, recently threw the ultimate girls’ night out party at 1111 Lincoln Road on the eve of the Sex and the City 2 (SATC2) premiere. Girlfriends all across Miami put their stilettos and cocktail dresses on to attend her Moroccan themed SATC2 party and special screening – an event held to salute friendship.

Being that Valerie Bihet is an expert at coordinating events, she has been invited to the South Florida Today show to speak about how to plan a fabulous, yet financially feasible girl’s night out/in party that promises to keep friends entertained.

Quality time with true girlfriends is priceless, however a girls’ night-out can be a little expensive. Not to worry though, Valerie knows the secrets on how to throw the ultimate girls’ night out/in on a budget, and she wants to share them with you.

Here are the tips that our Valerie gave:

1. Send out your “Save The Dates” via Evite- Let’s face it, we’re all online! Send out invitations to your soiree via Evite, its fast and easy to assemble, it’s received almost instantaneously, and it’s free!

Other options to consider:

-Creating an invite via Facebook

-If hosting a large event, save on invitations by designing your own event website. There are websites such as  web.com and buildyoursite.com that charge small monthly fees to host your website

-MAIN POINT= Get the word out of your event/party electronically – very cost efficient. Take advantage of the power of social media to increase exposure and if notifying friends via Twitter, make sure to use a unique #hashtag to track RSVP’s.

2.Look fearlessly fashionable and don’t break the bank- Ladies, let’s thank Target for launching the Go International designers campaign, making designer brands available to girls, for a portion of the price. In the last two months, Zac Posen and Jean Paul Gaultier both premiered lines exclusive to Target.

You can also locate stores that offer the services of a complimentary personal shopper. One such store is (J.Crew in Miami Beach ). With the personal shopper’s fashion expertise and a trip to the stores sales section, you’ll be guaranteed a fabulous and inexpensive party outfit.

Also, most cosmetic lines at department stores will give you a total make-over for free, or after a purchase is made (usually $30-$50). Often you need to make an appointment before hand, so be sure to call in advance for more details.

Now to find the perfect outfit at an affordable price.

There is also the option of treating yourself to a spa day at the comfort of your own home. Using natural ingredients you can make face scrubs and masks to build a glow for your girls’ night out.

3.What’s a Party without Decor- There’s no need to spend a fortune on party decorations when you can place in-season flowers around the house by using recycled bottles of wine as vases. It’s also a great idea to create a slideshow of photos and stream them live from your TV – girls love to sit back and reminisce!

Other Options:

-Buy from websites like Oriental Trading that offer high quantity at a wholesale price.

4.Skip hiring a DJ, turn-up your iPod- While there’s something extremely enticing about having a DJ at your party, using your iPod to liven-up the evening is very convenient and cost-efficient. To keep with the party theme, play soundtracks to “Sex and the City” and “Sex and the City 2″, as well as other girl favorites:

1. Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It) – Beyonce

2. Girls Just Wanna Have Fun - Cyndi Lauper

3. Material Girl – Madonna

5.The signature drinks- If you’re a “Sex and the City” Gal, then a Cosmo is what you’ll be having. In order to budget yourself for your girls’ night, be sure to create a drink menu with 3-4 signature drinks. By doing so you cut cost associated with buying multiple glass models and drink mixes. Some drink considerations include: Cosmopolitans, Manhattans, and Appletinis. For those not old enough to enjoy a drink, not to worry we have a pink drink for you! Simply mix Sprite with a pink lemonade powder, the result, a “Pink Lemontini”.

6.Have your girls bring a favorite appetizer dish- Put your girls to the “Rachel Ray” challenge and have each of them cook-up a fancy snack to bring to the party – this is an inexpensive alternative to ordering in or having dinner at a restaurant. Besides, you’ll have the opportunity to bounce snacking ideas off one another for your next girls’ night.

Roll Out The Blanket…It’s Picnic Time

When I think of summer , I think of a picturesque lake view and a large blanket that has endless amount of choices of great foods and desserts. Make this summers picnic a magical one filled with bright and warm colors.

Here are some colors to keep in mind when planning your next summer picnic!

Great ideas I ran across:

Get really creative this summer and think out of the box , with all the possibilities that you can do when you have no guidelines to follow.

Example from trendsetter: Enchanted Picnic has exotic themes, follies in Versailles, rave party in Schönbrunn, murder in an English garden – Lewis Carroll, Fragonard gate-crashes the camp site, Hansel and Gretel’s cuisine, ecology show – glamor and fun, the dawn of artificial preciousness. Colors that set the teeth on edge – neon but whitened, transparent jelly fish, over-bright pastels, fiery brights tempered by grey and measured beige.

1. Play with the colors

2. Create an intricate theme based on a small detail that may carry throughout the picnic

3. Location, Location , Location ( go out of town to somewhere new and allow for everyone to be out of their elements, so they can relax and think of nothing that they left behind.)

4. Make it a potluck picnic so the food varies and everyone can be a part of the action

5. Sit back and enjoy!

Are you sitting now… what do you see in front of you?

• Breakfast picnic: Skip the sandwiches in favor of a breakfast picnic theme. Fruit and fruit salads, muffins, mini quiches, sweet or cinnamon rolls, deviled eggs, and smoked meat and cheese with croissants or bagels, and juice or coffee could be incorporated for a fun picnic spread.

• Appetizer picnic: An appetizer picnic menu is romantic and fun. Smoked meats and cheeses with crackers, stuffed mushrooms, fresh vegetables and dip, hummus and pita chips, shrimp cocktail, mini sandwich wraps, and bite size cakes, cheesecakes, or pastries are great choices for this type of picnic.

Here is the recipe for the image above, it made my mouth water.

Ceviche Recipe

Ingredients:
-4 oz scallops, thinly sliced
- 4 ounces skinned red snapper filet, diced
- 1/2 cup, and 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 large tomato, diced
- 1/2 medium avocado
- 1 small red onion, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro
- 3 dashes hot pepper sauce
- salt and pepper to taste

** You can also sub out the scallops and red snapper for shrimp, crab or ahi tuna! (The shrimp one is my FAVORITE!)

Directions:
Toss 4 ounces sea scallops, thinly sliced, and 4 ounces skinned red snapper filet, diced, with 1/2 cup fresh lime juice in a medium glass bowl. Cover and refrigerate until the fish becomes opaque, about 1 hour. Drain, then toss with 1 large tomato, diced; 1/2 medium avocado, pitted, peeled, and diced; 1 small red onion, minced; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro; 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice; 3 dashes hot pepper sauce; salt to taste; and ground pepper to taste. Serve immediately, cold, on a bed of shredded iceberg lettuce. NOTE: Ask for sushi-grade fish at your market.

Serving size = 1 cup

Compliments of LaaLoosh.

Pink Frosting offers a range of appetizing treats with a touch of elegance.

• Dessert picnic: For a sweet way to finish off a summer evening, plan a simple dessert picnic. Cupcakes, brownie bites or squares, fresh fruit, mini cakes, puff pastry, cookies, slices of fruit pie, lemon bars, chocolate covered strawberries, slices of pound cake, and chocolate mousse cups all make lovely fare for a dessert picnic.

• Classic picnic: Items like cold fried chicken, cole slaw, potato salad, baked beans, freshly baked brownies, slices of watermelon, and ice-cold lemonade make a perfect classic picnic menu.

Hope some of these ideas get your creative juices flowing …Until tomorrow then and get with the VIBE.

Summer 2010 is here…

Summer is here and it is hotter than ever here in South Florida. Late afternoon showers and high percentages of humidity, make sure to always have an umbrella and use lots of anti-frizz hair products for the next few months ahead.

This is the perfect time to start planning your next picnic or BBQ down by the lake or on a boat, ultimate pool party like you never had/been to before, and the most calming and peaceful/eccentric summer wedding. Over the next series the blogs we’ll give you our best tips and ideas on how to throw these events together and make you next event get with the VIBE.

The colors to keep in mind this season are  bright pastels,  deep forest tones, and fun in the sun neutrals. We went ahead and took the liberty of pairing the palettes with different kinds of summer events …to give  you some ideas/ tips  of what you can do and places you can find items to do it yourself at home , if you got that creative touch.

Here are some other trends you might want to keep an eye out for this summer as well…

CND’s long lasting Shellac. Courtesy Photo

1. The buzz on nails is bold blues and greens, sizzling metallics and chip-free manicures.

a.Try out CalGel, CND Shellac and OPI Axxium the newest trend in nail polish that will have your manicures/    pedicures lasting that much longer. Want to know more visit StyleList.

Images from: Blog Catalog

2. Designers launching there there new creations-

a.Veritas launches it “Amongst Us” line  which has designs coming right out of the cast of Gossip Girl…so all you XOXO fans make sure one of these pieces of art are hanging in your closet.

Image from Shameless Jewelry.com

3. Jewelry that makes a statement

a.  Shameless Jewelry by Shea Curry make a statement this summer and join the long list of celebs that have already joined in the indulgence: Ashlee Simpson, AnnaLynne McCord, Gwen Stefani, Hayden Panettiere, Katy Perry, Kim Kardashian, just to name a few.

With a KISS of Summer !! stay tuned for the blogs ahead.

Celebrating Father’s Day

Image from Eggpress.

Father’s Day is June 20^th. What will you be doing for dear old dad? Everyone makes such a big deal about mom, but dad never gets top billing. This year, celebrate Father’s Day with a cool, themed party. It can be at home – in- or outdoors – day or evening. Invite family and friends over and have a full out party to let dad know how much you care! Pick a theme – or just barbecue! Here are some cool ideas for themes, the décor, and serving suggestions to help you get started.

Themes for Dad:

Bad-Ass Barbecue:

Fire up the BBQ because we are cooking for Father’s Day! Usually it is dad’s job to stand over the grill, but unless he specifically asks to do it, make sure there is a designated BBQ’er. Steak, chicken, hamburgers, hot dogs, corn on the cob …may sound typical but it’s oh-so-good. Offer a variety of sauces and condiments for dipping. For a twist, throw clams and shrimp on as an appetizer. Fill a big tin bucket with ice and water and throw in beer, water, soda… all dad’s faves. Décor can be simple as bringing in wooden picnic tables (add cushions for comfort) or using old-fashioned red and white checkered tablecloths with eco-friendly disposable plates.

Pig Roast:

Distinctly Latin, this is a specialty that is not to be missed. For those who can do it, Bring your appetites as a whole pig gets slow-roasted in a “La Caja China” box. Simply place the pig (or any other meat you want to cook) inside the box, close the attached, place charcoal on top of the lid and start the roasting process. Grease from the meat flows into a catch pan so there’s no mess. Depending on the size of the pig, the whole process can take as little as four hours. You can rent or buy the box, which can be made of wood lined with metal to sleek stainless steel. Prices also range from approximately $100 to over $1,000. Check out www.shoplatintouch.com or http://www.lacajachina.com/.

Sports Bar:

There’s nothing better than a day of sports to really make a man happy. Use dad’s favorite teams to get the décor going – hang pennants, use football helmets as bowls to serve chips and peanuts, create centerpieces for the table from golf or baseball paraphernalia, serve hot dogs in foil bags (personalized for dad), French fries, chicken fingers and the like in paper holders/trays and beverages in big plastic (try to get the biodegradable type) cups. It’s a plus if you’ve got Direct TV – gather all the TVs in the house or rent a few and show any games that might be on that day – baseball, tennis, poker, golf and whatever else is on!

While browsing  I ran across this and i really liked it…it’s from the Wonderland blog and if you don’t have anything that you do special fro your dad there is no time like the present to start up a tradition to pass down.

Fathers Day Traditions

A father’s love is a powerful force. Here are ten meaningful family traditions to help you celebrate Dad this Father’s Day.

1. Make sure Dad knows that this is his day and that you will be spending time as a family doing whatever he wishes. If you have younger kids in the house, ask them to make him a crown that he can wear on his big day.

2. Let the kids make Dad breakfast and send it up to him on a tray when he wakes up. Also make sure he has a cup of coffee or tea, as well as the day’s newspaper and a sharp pencil if he enjoys doing the crossword or Sodoku puzzle.

3. Give Dad a Memory Jar. Cut 50 to 100 strips of paper, and give 20 or 30 to each family member so that they can each record special memories they have shared with dear Dad. This Father’s Day, present him with the jar. In subsequent years and on other important holidays throughout the year, you can add to the jar by including more strips of paper in his card or gift.

4. Ask the kids to write a letter to their Dad, detailing the things that they appreciate about him, as well as the special memories that they will treasure from the past year. Make this an annual tradition and keep the letters so that you can collect them in a book or album as the children get older. An alternative is to record the sentiments on video. Each year, you can watch the video and add to it.

5. Ask your dad about his favorite charity and, each year, make a donation in his name.

6. What is Dad’s favorite sport or activity? Take the family along for a bike ride or picnic, if he enjoys the great outdoors. If he’s a golf lover, have the kids plan a few hours of fun at the local putt putt course.

7. What is Dad’s favorite board game? Make sure to take time during the day to play a game.

8. Invite the dads in your neighborhood over for a barbecue. The moms can do the grilling while the dads relax with a cold glass of iced tea or other beverage.

9. If you don’t have grandparents or uncles living close by, make sure to give each of the special dads in your family a call or send them a handmade card.

10. In many countries, societies, schools and clubs have been organizing cultural programs, competitions to commemorate Father’s Day and pay tribute to fatherhood. Some of the common programs include craft making competitions, games and sports events. Board games play a prominent role in entertaining the people and the guest of honor.

Tell us what you think and make your next a event a VIBE one.

Jet- Setting Marrakesh in 48 hrs.

48 hrs. to see it all… Marrakech in a Flash

Pearl of the South, Jewel of the South, The Rose City—just a few of the nicknames Marrakesh has acquired over the years. The pearl and the jewel symbolize its importance as the center of Morocco ever since it was a trading and resting place on the crossroads of ancient caravan routes from Timbuktu. The rose attests to a city still painted entirely in salmon pink, in keeping with the red-clay earth below. Once called Morocco City by foreign travelers, Marrakesh eventually lent its name to the country itself. Part Berber, part Arab, part African, Marrakesh is the heartbeat of Morocco, where palaces and monuments of unrivaled refinement sit calmly alongside the snake charmers and Gnaouan drums pulsing constantly from Djemâa el Fna Square—the most exuberant marketplace in the world.

Places to stay:

Amanjena

There is a place in paradise where peace holds time, where nature and culture know no seams, where comfort and luxury unite in style and where water reflects the blush of clay. This place is Amanjena, Morocco’s Moorish rose, a resort secluded in a private lush haven near the pulsating Medina of Marrakech. With Atlas Mountains in your sights let Amanjena take your hand and treat you to the wonders of Africa’s sun-kissed land.

Riad Kniza

Dating from the 18th century, Riad Kniza is a small, luxury “Hotel de Charme” in the heart of the old Médina of Marrakech, completely restored by Haj Mohamed Bouskri using traditional materials and artisans to recreate an authentic Moroccan experience as in days gone by.

Jnane Tamsna

Set in nine landscaped acres within a private estate, Jnane Tamsna offers a total of 24 ensuite bedrooms spread over three properties: Jnane House, Jnane Moussafir and Jnane Salmia. There are two large and two small meeting rooms as well as numerous sitting rooms, dining areas and outdoor spaces. The grounds feature five pools, a clay surface tennis court, a hammam (Moroccan steam bath) and treatment rooms for massage and beauty therapy.

Jnane Tamsna adopts a minimalist approach to Oriental splendour. Elements of traditional Moroccan style and colour have been adapted to achieve a peaceful, contemporary look. The cuisine is a fusion of Moroccan and modern European, using local produce sourced wherever possible from Jnane Tamsna’s organic gardens.

From individual rooms to exclusive villa rental, Jnane Tamsna offers a rare flexibility. As a private or corporate venue, it blends the large capacity usually only offered by hotels and the absolute intimacy, first-class food and fine service of the best private homes.

Riad Aida

upon entering this intimate six-room guesthouse built in the late 1800′s, vivid and brilliant colors will evoke a sense of passion in its guest. This Riad was once home to Chief Architect Muhammad al-Mekki, designer of the famous Bahia Palace. Its has three superior rooms and two deluxe rooms and one suite with a patio view, offering a living and dining area and tranquil terrace for your relaxation.

Truelly a jet-setter well try this set schedule and see if you can survive a crash course of Marrakesh.

DAY 1:Drop your bags off and jump right into a tour…to get you in the mindset of your location.

8:30 a.m.: Full day sightseeing to Essaouira

Essaouira was called Mogador for a long time, inspired by the name of its chef, Sidi Amogdoul. The city is built on a low and narrow sandy peninsula .Strengthened ” à la Vauban “, endowed with walls dividing several internal quarters of perfectly straight streets, dense houses with many floors, Essaouira was described in the past as ( a European fantasy on a Moroccan theme ).

5 p.m.: Visit a sylvan setting
Relax by taking a calèche (horse-drawn carriage) ride over to the Menara Garden in the Ville Nouvelle. You can pick one up near the Djemâa el Fna; the ride should cost about 100 DH. Not only is the half-hour ride a welcome break from the intensity of the medina, but the Menara’s olive groves and elegant lagoon are relaxingly peaceful.

6:30 p.m.: Cook like a local
Work up an appetite by learning first-hand the secrets of Moroccan cooking. Cooking classes are quickly becoming all the rage in Morocco, as the country’s cuisine gets ever-increasing international attention. Most classes last a full day, but Dar les Cigognes, a riad in the medina, offers a quick, one-hour introduction every day at 6:30 for only 150 dirhams. Book ahead to be sure of getting in.

DAY 2: take in the culture

9 a.m.: Let’s get wet
Start your day with a relaxing hammam, Morocco’s version of a Turkish bath. Go with the locals at upscale public hammams like Hammam Ziani, or have a small one all to yourself by booking an appointment at a hotel’s private hammam. The hammams at La Maison Arabe and Caravan Serai are some of our favorites. (Expect to pay between $65 and $80 for a hammam and massage at an upscale hotel, and as low as $5-$10 at a local hammam.)

10:30 a.m.: On the town
It’s time to see the sights. Start off at the breathtaking El Bahia Palace for a lesson in architecture. Once home to a harem, it’s a jaw-dropping display of the best in Moroccan painted ceilings, ceramics, and garden design. Next, head north to the tanneries for the quintessential postcard shot of men dyeing animal skins as they’ve done for centuries. Next, spend some time in the peaceful courtyard and labyrinthine dormitories of the amazingly preserved Ali ben Youssef Medersa, North Africa’s largest Koranic school. Dating to the 16th century, the delicate intricacy of the stucco plasterwork and mosaics in the courtyard will take your breath away.

1:30 p.m.: Mid-afternoon feast
Immerse yourself in the energy of the Djemâa el Fna, a centuries-old square that is the heartbeat of Marrakesh. The square bustles with bazaars, snake charmers and acrobats all day long and well into the night. It’s also loaded with eateries and is a great place to stop for lunch. Choose from the wide variety of kefta (beef patties), Moroccan salads, beef brochettes, and soups supplemented by bread, olives, and hot sauce. Wash it all down with fresh orange juice or the ubiquitous mint tea. Go easy, though, as you’ll want to leave lots of room for dinner.

2:30 p.m.: Learn the art of the bargain
It’s time to shop. Marrakesh’s souks (covered outdoor bazaars) are the city’s main attraction. The vast labyrinth of narrow streets at the center of the medina is a wonder of arts, crafts, and workshops. Here, you’ll see artisans making rugs on looms and hammering iron into lanterns. There’s an area for almost every kind of product; you can buy babouches (pointy-toed leather slippers) in an infinite number of colors, stock up on spices, and buy silver jewelry for the folks back home. Bargain hard, and compare prices at different stalls before purchasing.

8 p.m.: Eat like a local
Now that you’ve gotten your hands dirty, it’s time for dinner. It’s easy to overdo it with Moroccan food. Many restaurants offer set menus with what seems like an unending succession of courses. Don’t try to finish each one, because even when you think you’re done, there’s always another one on its way. Expect to start with Moroccan salads and small briouates (pastries similar to Indian samosas), followed by a meat tagine, a couscous dish, and almond pastries for dessert. For a splurge, reserve a table at Dar Marjana, Le Tobsil, or Stylia in the medina; both serve copious amounts of traditional Moroccan food in palatial surroundings. For those on a budget, El Fassia, in the new section of town, gets rave reviews for its a la carte home cooking and pleasant atmosphere.

10 p.m.: Party Marrakesh style
Once you’ve digested dinner, it’s time to party. The wealth of nightlife opportunities in Marrakesh has exploded in recent years. Some of the most happening places are a bit out of town on the road to the Ourika Valley, so you’ll probably need to take a taxi. Trendy Pacha (Avenue Mohammed VI, on the way to Ourika Valley) can satisfy even the most demanding dance fiends. It has live music, two restaurants, a lounge, and a swimming pool.

1:30 a.m.: Hit the hay
Bedtime. Head back to the medina and your romantic riad (a traditional mansion house built around an interior courtyard or garden). Marrakesh has hundreds, each decorated in a variety of sumptuous styles. One of the best is Riad Enija, with sunken baths, exquisite tile work, and a fountain-filled courtyard. Counting pennies? Try Riad Amazigh, which has rooms with two levels linked by spiral staircases and a beautiful, candle-lit Berber-inspired dining room.

Get with the VIBE and let us plan out your next adventure to anywhere…Got a place in mind?