I don't know if it's pride. If I have no idea what to tell someone I'll say I don't know. But I think we do want to be helpful - being in this city does make one feel like we're all in it together. I might not know where to send you but if you seem reasonably ok I might pull out my Google Maps app and check the MTA app, too, for you.

ETA: I know Parisiennes also get a bad rap. But one time I was lost in Paris and some sweet gentleman listened to my really bad French, literally took me by the arm, and took me to the place I was looking for. And he wasn't the only one who went out of his way to help me. I think if you are respectful, people in big cities will help you out.