I've been to Paris several times and found the metro to be a breeze. I purchased a carnet, which is a 10-pack of tickets, and that suited me fine. There are other options too - see
paris metro | Paris by Train for some good information.
I usually stayed in La Defense when there for business, but once I was on my own dime I'd move into a hotel in Montparnesse near the train station. From there you can hop the TGV to anywhere. The atmosphere is fantastic.
I speak some French, and it really seems to warm people up when you try to communicate in their language. The contention that the French are rude is completely baffling to me - I've been treated with courtesy and respect.
Paris is a beautiful city, the ambiance is amazing, the food is great... I can't think of any good reason not to spend some time and soak it all in.