A woman lived out her own version of The Holiday after swapping homes with a complete stranger whom she met on TikTok.
Marie Draxler, from London, decided to swap flats after spotting a video by NYC native Lohanny Santos, who was looking for someone abroad to exchange homes for a trip.
Intrigued by the idea, Marie reached out – and the pair instantly hit it off.
READ MORE: Couple surrounded by playful dolphins in stunning encounter
- Advertisement -
After a few friendly chats and a Zoom call, the pair decided to go for it, even booking their flights at the same time.
After posting about her real-life The Holiday experience, Marie’s TikTok quickly blew up – racking up millions of views.
“I’m so happy,” she says in one video.
“I am just in this little bliss bubble, and I’m just so grateful for this whole swap and us doing this and me being here and just living this crazy adventure.”
Marie soaked up the sights of New York, exploring the city’s parks, testing out photo booths and tucking into classic Big Apple eats.
- Advertisement -
Meanwhile, Lohanny, from Brooklyn, got to experience London life from a cosy Notting Hill flat.
The pair, who both live in one-bed flats, stayed in touch throughout their travels – giving each other recommendations and keeping tabs on the other’s adventures.
Marie said the swap felt straight out of The Holiday – minus the unexpected romance – and proved that all it takes is a bit of trust and TikTok magic to turn a movie moment into reality.
- Advertisement -
“I just wandered all over Manhattan, truly enjoying the best the city had to offer,” Marie told What’s The Jam.
“We both created a list of recommendations – from cafés to cute boutiques – and we both checked out those recommendations and truly lived like the other.
“New York always has and always will hold a special place in my heart.
“This city has always inspired and motivated me on a whole new level.
“I’m so grateful I got to experience this trip and truly lived like a local.”
Viewers have flooded the comment section.
One person said: “It’s literally The Holiday in real life.”
Someone else added: “The Holiday is my favourite movie, can’t believe I’m seeing it in real life!”
Others couldn’t believe how the pair found each other,.
One person said: “OMG I just saw the video of the NYC girl asking to switch places before this one and then I saw your comment – no way!”
Someone else joked: “Make sure she doesn’t have a brother!”, referencing Jude Law’s famous character from the film.
Another person said: “It’s giving The Holiday vibes – I hope she gets her a Jude Law. I want one.”
Dozens more were inspired to try it for themselves.
One person said: “If anyone wants to switch and stay in San Diego, let me know!”
Someone else added:“If someone doesn’t make this a business idea I will!”
READ MORE: Mum left sobbing at airport after little-known passport rule ruins family holiday
