Giving blood is common in Germany and the most convenient way is through the German Red Cross (www.drk-berlin.de). Its little white buses make stops in key locations throughout every neighbourhood, allowing donors to give blood as they go about their daily business. See its website for more details. If you haven’t given blood before, you must be under 60. It is illegal to drive for half an hour once you’ve lost a pint.

You can also give blood at the Charité Hospital in Mitte or at its Virchow campus in Wedding (030 4505 53899). Although it accepts donations every day except Sunday, the hours are inconsistent, so call ahead.