Funny, I had almost exactly the same thing happen. Coming back before Christmas, I had a layover in Paris, and as always, Air France was late (this is not French-bashing, Air France has a HORRIBLE record for lateness!), and so naturally, there were a TON of people at the ticket counter being given alternative flights and stuff. Well, EVERY single person before me got a free overnight stay in the heart of Paris, and when I got to the gate "OH Monsieur, you are VERY lucky!! I have a seat for you on the next Flight to Atlanta!" Yeah, lucky alright, it was in the middle of the rear section, in the middle of the middle row on an entirely full flight on a Boeing 777 (in my opinion, the WORST flying Cattle Car ever for Coach Class!!!!!) It was a long 9 1/2 hours back!!! I would have gladly waited a day!
