Don't a lot of people in France look at you badly if you only speak English? I read that this is especially true in more "proud French areas" like Paris etc.

Short answer: no.

This may have been true at one point in time, but it's certainly no longer the case. I think this myth comes from a mix of two things:

a) differences in intonation that some people (mostly Americans) interpret as aggressive or hostile, when really they're not

b) the possibility that this was true in the past (e.g. during the 50's, perhaps because the French were eager to see stationed GIs leave)

Yes and no. It was still there in the late 90's and early aughts. That said Parisians just don't like anyone not from Paris. They look down on other French people not from Paris. When you're from Paris, then you'll be judged on your arrondissement. Basically, Paris is a really judgy place but the rest of the country isn't. This isn't all that different from other countries' major cities (NYC, London, etc).

That said, you'll get by, meet a lot of nice people from all over, get to vacation regularly in places which are "once in a lifetime travels" for most Americans, etc.

> b) the possibility that this was true in the past (e.g. during the 50's, perhaps because the French were eager to see stationed GIs leave)

Or amybe, you know, because of the historical rivalry between France and England :)

Very true. Silly of me to overlook this obvious point! :)

Clearly not in start up environments. What do bother some shopkeepers or restaurants owners for example, is when tourists speak english to them very fast and naturally assuming everybody speaks english. But then if you ask first politely "i'm sorry i don't speak french", then you'll only receive warm welcomes.