hi christine,
i did this trip 11 years ago.
learn french!!
i met about 2 people in 3 months who spoke english, o.k. 11 years ago, maybe now you meet 10,
maybe 100, who knows. the french speakers are very chauvenist and do not believe they need to learn english as a world language, even in paris you need french.
you will definately find it hard if you do not speak basic french.
apart from that it is a fantastic place to travel
amazing culture, people really friendly and helpful, i was a western woman alone and never had a problem.
if you want more info mail me. I believe my mail address is included in this message.
have a great time!