Getting Around in Paris

  My husband's bought a Metro pass that he can use to go all over the city.  He's been exploring different districts and neighborhoods, to try to get a feel for where he would like to find an apartment.
  I love the Metro.  It's easy to use, even if you don't speak French.  If you look especially lost or confused, sometimes there are attendants around to help you out.
  One of the comments I've often heard is that Parisians aren't friendly.  I've never had an unpleasant encounter with a person from Paris and I've been to the City of Light at least six times.  My advice is to learn the simple phrases of "Hello, please and thank you."  When I entered a bakery or shop, I always greeted the clerks or owners with "Bon jour" or "Bon soir" (depending if it's morning or evening.)
  On one of our trips to Paris, we had dinner at a small restaurant not far from Notre Dame.  After our wonderful meal was served, the chef, dressed in white, white apron and chef's toque, actually came out of the kitchen and sat down with us.  We enjoyed talking with him.  (We aren't fluent in French but we TRY.)
  That's another thing--I TRY to speak French, and am especially fluent at saying "So sorry, I don't speak French" in French.  ("Je suis désolé je ne parle pas français.")
You rattle that phrase off and I guarantee that you'll get a big smile, and in perfect English "But of course, you speak French!"