A romantic evening in Ireland took an unexpected turn for Match Me Abroad star Amber Temple when she discovered her date, Paul's unconventional bathroom setup. The 38-year-old makeup artist from Fort Worth, Texas, was initially charmed by Paul's rustic countryside lifestyle until she learned about his homemade compost toilet system and garden-grown tea.
The situation became more complicated when Paul served her tea made from leaves fertilized by his compost system. In a candid confessional, Temple expressed her shock:
"I took a sip of the tea and it is delicious, so good. And then immediately I think, Paul's doody fertilized this and I am disgusted. He had other teas there! Why would you give me the poo tea?"
With the assistance of expert matchmakers, Match Me Abroad tracks six unmarried Americans as they journey abroad in search of love. Cultural differences and relationship difficulties that come up when dating abroad are highlighted in the TLC series. Temple's trip to Dublin symbolizes her pursuit of love with Irish men, whom she finds especially alluring because of their masculinity and accents.
The episode emphasizes how lifestyle disparities can affect developing relationships, particularly when environmentally conscious behavior conflicts with traditional norms. Temple's response exemplifies the cultural shock that many Americans go through when they see different living arrangements elsewhere.
What exactly happened on Match Me Abroad’s Amber’s date with Paul?
Paul's rural home was certainly not your usual arrangement. Temple immediately saw how unadorned the space was, with no ostentatious devices or appliances to be seen. The kitchen included blue mosaic tiles and simple laminate counters, but a refrigerator was a major missing component.
Paul then went on to describe his dietary strategy. He uses fresh vegetables from his garden and non-perishable dry foods instead of refrigeration. All of this is a part of his independent lifestyle, which also incorporates some innovative approaches to trash management.
With a wood-burning fireplace taking center stage, an eclectic mix of furnishings, and wildlife pictures on the walls, the living room complemented the off-grid theme. It wasn't your typical cozy sofa moment, but it worked: tea was served on the floor next to a rust-colored couch without arms.
The toilet was the true surprise story that followed. At first glance, everything appeared rather normal, even the rubber duck shower curtain, but Paul pointed out his specially designed compost toilet with a casual air.
However, a bucket of sawdust beside the wooden toilet seat hinted at something different. Paul explained his waste disposal system, describing how deposits get covered with sawdust before being moved to the garden as fertilizer.
Temple's initial skepticism gave way to cautious acceptance when she discovered the system was odorless. The piney scent of the sawdust impressed her, and she praised Paul's craftsmanship and self-reliance.
What seemed like a successful explanation of alternative living quickly soured when Paul connected the dots between his compost system and the tea service. The revelation that his garden tea leaves were fertilized by his waste system created an uncomfortable moment.
Match Me Abroad's Temple had already consumed several sips of the beverage and found it delicious. Learning about its fertilizer source after the fact left her feeling deceived and disgusted, especially since Paul had other tea options available.
The timing of this revelation proved particularly unfortunate, as Temple had just begun appreciating Paul's resourcefulness and environmental consciousness. The connection between his waste system and their refreshments crossed a line for the American visitor.
What does this mean for Amber’s future?
This encounter on Match Me Abroad illustrates the broader challenges facing international couples on reality television. What Paul views as sustainable living practices, Temple sees as unsanitary and inappropriate for romantic situations.
The incident raises questions about compatibility when fundamental lifestyle differences create discomfort. Temple's strong reaction suggests this revelation could significantly impact their relationship's future development.
Their story continues to unfold on Match Me Abroad, where cultural misunderstandings often determine whether international romances survive or fail.
Match Me Abroad airs Sundays at 10/9c on TLC and is available to stream on Max.