I have a very good German friend and he and I have talked about some of the things you mentioned — such as being nude in saunas and the differences between German and English.

I think Germans are hard on the outside but soft on the inside. When I (as an American) first encountered my German friend, I thought the was cold and unfriendly. Then I realized he is the warmest person in the world, but it takes a long time to get to that place. However, once a friendship is formed it is very sincere and honest.

I never ask his opinion on something unless I want the honest truth. This works for me because I prefer honesty, but not everyone does. :-)