It is never a good idea to fly with US based airlines when flying to Europe. The service standards have fallen so low and they have no commitment to helping resolve any problems. The attitude of the United Rep is typical. What to you is a long awaited holiday, much anticipated and costing thousands, is just another missed flight to them. They simply don't care.
You were right to avoid Delta, but you could get to Paris via Lufthansa via Frankfurt (make sure that you don't get stuck on a codeshare with United...there is a direct Lufthansa to ATL flight) or a direct flight with Air France (there is only one per day, the rest are the dreaded Delta). It is worth the extra for long haul flights...
You also have more rights if you fly on a EU based carrier when flying from the US. EU Regulation 261 applies, if you are on an EU based carrier and your flight originates or arrives in Europe.
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