Are you really so sure of that? If the people in this place are the "all", I hardly think so. There seem to be-- all types here. I think you'd retain or maybe even make a few friends at least. The main thing is, they would know you better, and therefore be better friends.

I don't mean to come off all playground diplomacy, but really, honesty is the only really feasible way to gain the upper hand in this situation. In my opinion.