It's funny how that misconception persists. I was watching an old episode of Babylon 5 the other day in which Marcus and Ivanova go out searching for some of the First Ones (advanced aliens) to join them against the Shadows in the coming war. Ivanova makes a comment to the effect of "They know our language, they just refuse to speak to us in it." Marcus replies "Who knew they were French!" It's nice to know it's all hooey!

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.

That's about the extent of my French. :(