Our move is coming up and we're searching for an alternative to Ikea.

If someone has any ideas in the Basel area, let me know.

alternatively, if someone is moving out of Basel and would like to sell their furniture, we're also interested.

Thanks

Interio is a step UP... I quite like it.

If you are looking at budget optons, there are loads of second hand shops around Basel. Some have decent stuff but you really have to shop around. There is also a Salvation Army on Breisacherstrasse in KBasel. I haven't been but hear it is a large on so they might have somthing for you.

It says on your permit.

If you have a short-term study permit you must shop in Brocki's or by raiding piles of furniture dumped on the street.

If you have an "L" permit you must shop at Ikea.

If you have a "B" permit you're allowed to shop at Interio, Otto and Ikea

If you have a "C" permit you're allowed to buy across the border in Germany or Interio but you're banned from Otto's and Ikea.

If you have a Swiss passport you must shop at local, independent Swiss shops, and tut at people buying in Germany, and spit at anyone buying at those shops allowed on a "B" permit. But, interestingly, you're allowed back into the Brocki's.

Adrian - thanks for the helpful tips. what are the rules for swiss-pass holders regarding buying furniture in France/Germany and bringing it back into the country?

Wear a paper bag over your head and make sure that nobody recognizes you

You can't do it. As Adrian said, you have to buy from independent, Swiss owned shops only. That way, you can feel smug about having paid twice as much, but having supported the Swiss economy in the process. It is your duty!

There are a large number of furniture stores located on the outskirts of Mulhouse in France (about 30 - 45 minutes from Basel). Examples include, amongst others, Alinea & Fly (A35 Exit 18) both of which would be similar in style to Ikea (but generally less expensive than Swiss Ikea). The import tax will depend on how much you have spent (perhaps someone else could give you advice here) or you could chance your arm & pass through one of the unmanned border crossings!