I probably should have posted this under relationships or soapbox, but it does deal with shopping here and the strange aversion people seem to have about anything second hand (apart from books and cars).

It's one of the things I've missed since moving here, the ability to find some nice items (furniture etc) cheap that may have been previously owned. My mil almost fainted when a friend sent me some "old" baby clothes to use for my children, we aren't exactly poverty level or midas rich but I can't see paying 20 euro for an outfit my baby is going to outgrow within weeks.

Does anyone know of any second hand shops or have any opinion of them? I would be interested in hearing from others what they think. I am aware that sometimes some real junk ends up in them but sometimes you can find some nice items.

That's the name in Brussels for a person who cannot pass a garbage container without peeping into it (there just might be something useful in there). Some people, like me, find it absolutely irresistible. Probably the idea of obtaining something 'for free'. True kazjoebereirs form a nationwide brotherhood and recognize each other as related souls. Whenever they meet they talk about their 'catches'.

You will find many people here in Belgium enjoy shopping second hand.

Flanders has official "kringloopwinkels" (one in every gemeente, I think); where utilizable second hand anythings are sold (a social and environmental project)

in Brussels "brocantes"- markets (rommelmarkten)seem to be a national sport. The foremost is the "Aa met" (flea market) on the Vossenplein, where you can buy all the second hand things you'd ever want

In my circle of friends and family, baby things have always been religiously kept to pass on to the next young mother. I e.g. own a 75 year old cradle that served for around 100 babies by now. It's a kind of family pride to lend it out.

In Elsene/Ixelles there are well patronized expensive second hand shops for designer clothes (Les enfants d'Edouard?) etc.

Then there are the auctions. I remember there were many in Antwerpen near the PLantijn-Moretusplein. In Gent near 't Zuid.

You should look around. There are more opportunities than you would imagine.

Chap here selling some stuff, NOW.
<a href="mailto:curlio_com@hotmail.com" Target="_BLANK">curlio_com@hotmail.com</a>

susanne, try troc.com for furniture and household goods. We have a great one close by, you could outfit an entire house or apartment in 1 day shopping there. Re clothing, I have an idea. Please write me at <a href="mailto:algarve42@yahoo.com" Target="_BLANK">algarve42@yahoo.com</a>.

Actually I saw a letter about them in this week's Bulletin. If you buy anything, be aware of the 48 hour warranty - test the item before the 48hours are up otherwise you don't get a refund if it doesn't work!