For Erin Tridle, meeting the love of her life felt like destiny had been setting the stage for years. As she told The World Daily, « It was like fate orchestrated everything perfectly. »
The journey began in 2016 when a 24-year-old Erin was scrambling to catch a flight home to the US after her train was canceled. After hours of waiting and frantic searching for alternatives, she finally boarded a train that seemed to be heading back to Paris. Despite her anxious uncertainty and the unintelligible French announcements, Erin decided to ask the person next to her.
« Excuse me, I don’t speak French. Do you know if this train is going to Paris? » she inquired.
To her relief, he responded in English with an American accent. The two started chatting, easing her worries with friendly conversation.
Little did she know, this encounter was just the beginning of a series of serendipitous events. When the train arrived in Paris, they parted ways, and Erin missed her flight. She decided to extend her stay in the city for a few more days.
The next day, as Erin strolled toward the Musée d’Orsay, she unexpectedly bumped into her train companion again. « We have to hang out! » she exclaimed. They spent the following days exploring Paris as friends, visiting karaoke bars and the Palace of Versailles. He recommended a hostel with a fantastic rooftop bar, which Erin took note of.
When Erin returned to the US, her train friend faded from memory, but his hostel tip lingered. Fast forward two and a half years, Erin was planning a solo trip to Paris and remembered the hostel’s recommendation. Despite its higher cost, she chose it for its rooftop bar.
At 28, Erin was in a bit of a slump, so a trip to Paris seemed like the perfect remedy. As a TV producer on a summer break, she set off for Europe, starting with Paris.
Arriving at Generator Hostel in June 2019, Erin was jet-lagged and went straight to bed. By the afternoon, she made her way to the rooftop bar, eager to catch a glimpse of Paris before it got busy.
The rooftop was quiet and charming, adorned with fairy lights and offering a breathtaking view. Erin noticed the bartender and felt an instant connection. When he approached, switching to English, she ordered a chilled Chardonnay.
Jordan, the bartender, was a twentysomething Frenchman studying in Paris. Their conversation flowed effortlessly, and Erin was struck by his warmth and genuine interest.
Though Erin wasn’t thinking too deeply at the time, she felt a spark. Little did she know, Jordan was about to become the love of her life.
