No, art does not imitate life. Hubby almost wouldn't go to Paris because of the tales he heard, but everyone there was very nice. I think it helped that I spoke a little French and tried.

Parisians live in very cramped quarters and they have social rituals to deal with it. You walk into a shop and you say "Bonjour." And they ask if they can help you and you say "Oui" or Merci, non." And you say goodbye and please. That and smiles seem to pave the way beautifully. Even if your accent isn't perfect.