Yes I found that the Barrière was geared towards French high society when I was last there. I speak French and was able to get decent service by being warm with the staff, but in general they fawned over the top guests. I had the FHR package with free breakfast and lunch, etc and when I had the lunch I found myself next to the Cannes police commissioner and one of the top news anchors on French TV. The staff couldn't stop refilling their glasses, schmoozing, etc.