In the late '90's, I was based in the US, but wo*ked for a company that was owned by the French.
I had a French boss, and I had a small staff - both based in the U.S. and in France (Lyon). That meant that my boss (and me) would travel "over there" - to each other's country, every 2-3 weeks or so.
Being that I spent every 4th-6th week in France, I got to know a lot about the culture, but more importantly the people.
DW/me have traveled to Paris (home of our corporate HQ) many times. We enjoy our time there.
While working, and a few trips with DW to my "French home" of Lyon, DW found out a few things.
In Paris (Pari - drop the "S", only C, R,F,L are spoken - be "careful" in what you speak) is easier to get around in for someone from the US who only has English as their only language - since it is a "tourist town", once you get out of the area, you should know a bit of the language (or as in my case, "tourist French" - I can order from a menu and give instructions to a taxi driver, but I cannot readily converse in the language).
As an example, DW and I had been to Paris (at least three times) and planned to travel to Lyon and Chamonix (Mt. Blanc), I made her aware that she would need to learn a bit of French to be able to get along with the "natives".
This was apparent when we arrived in Lyon, and she went to the local tourist office to see what kinds of tours they offered. Of course, none spoke any English (or would admit to doing so). She returned to the hotel (where I was napping) to tell of her woes. I went with her to the same office, and was able to arrange for a few tours (although I'm sure the ladies in the office had a good laugh at my attempts to speak, after I left).
On the way to Chamonix (via train), our train was interrupted quite rapidly, followed by an announcement (in French of course), followed by everybody - other than us, vacating the train. As I told my DW before the trip, "if you get into trouble with the language, look to somebody under the age of 25". She remembered my "message" and spoke to a young woman who told her of the train breaking down, and we needed to transfer to another unit.
Upon leaving Chamonix, we were standing in the train station (on our way back to Lyon, and then to Paris) where she approached a woman (slightly older than us) and attempted to speak in English. The women simply responded (in French) that she did not speak English. When my wife simply responded (in French) that she was American, but spoke no French, but asked if the woman knew any English, the woman immediately started to converse with her - in English (the French want you to at least try - those that can speak English will appreciate the effort, as long as you attempt to speak the language - however badly).
Since I (and DW) have spent a bit of time in France, we can certainly admire what Paris has to offer. However, Lyon does have a bit of an advantage on the "culinary front" (and is acknowledged as such).
For us? I would rate Paris as a great "starter venue" for those who have not yet traveled in France. However, the country has much more to offer (for those that are willing to stretch their imagination) in other areas.
Just my simple POV of the question from the OP.
