norway is famous for it's fjords, mountains, and ... exorbitant prices. things really are expensive here and many visitors are shocked when they see what things cost. and with fuel and electricity skyrocketing, prices for everything else are rising fast.
you probably won't believe me if i told you that here you can furnish an entire flat for a family of 4 for USD1000. but you can. everything you need, furniture, kitchenware, electric appliances, curtains, carpets, bath accessories, decorations, art, mirrors, antiques pretty much everything. and i am not talking about some dirty worn out junk that belongs in the trash instead of the shelves in a second hand shop. of course there are things you probably prefer new, like mattresses and bedding. well, you can afford them if you buy everything else in places like this.
how about a dinner set for 12. the price USD 15
this comfortable 2 +3 real leather sofa set would set you back some real money if you bought it new, but this set in good condition is for sale for $40.
how about a real pinewood cupboard for $20. that is the price for just one of these shelves in the lumberyard
or your choice of bureaaus for $15
a dime for a glass
or pay a little more for some nice blue glassware
hardwood coffeetables are only a little more than pine or wood substitutes
lamps
mirrors
some creative shelving
books
kitchenware
have you ever tried to buy a new handmade poceain doll? if you have you are not likely to do it often. these are a steal
maybe you like old stuff
this fully refurbished antique classic singer sewing machine is yours for $20. fully operational and complete with the box. i must tell you though, there are professional buyers in here the minute the shop opens so real bargain antiques disappear in a hurry
all this and much much more is for sale in just a single shop.
mind you this is a volunteer operation that is open for a few hectic hours on wednesdays and saturdays. but there are other shops run by charitable organizations with even larger selections for maybe only a little more money. you won't find everything you need all in one place or even one day but it never ceases to amaze me at what is available
and i haven't even mentioned the flea markets!