Hi Tim! Glad you got up the courage to write to a forum written in a language other than your own. I myself am an American born and living in Germany and a passionate barefooter (member of the SBL). Barefooting is definitely accepted here, though you will get "the look" if not an indirect comment, especially if during a time of year such as now when barefooting seems to be "out of season". If summer 2004 is going to be as hot as 2003, I'm sure there will lots of bare feet to be seen. "Barefoot in the Park" is very common here and there are no 3NS signs on any shops. Most barefooters will younger folks. I have visited one of the BF parks Lorenz gave you info on in Bad Sobernheim and found it to be very stimulating. Unfortunately it doesn't open till April. Feel free to e-mail me privately if you'd like to know more.
Happy (BF) New Year! Don