This past February, Holly and Michael Bodner packed their bags—and their passports—and headed across the Atlantic with their two sons, Beckett (10) and Bauer (8), for a two-week adventure in vibrant Barcelona, Spain. But this wasn’t just any family vacation. The trip was inspired by a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the boys to attend an immersive 10-day soccer camp hosted by the world-renowned FC Barcelona organization.

The Bodners' connection to the camp began right here in Louisville, where Beckett and Bauer attended a local clinic run by FC Barcelona. At the end of that program, the boys received an invitation to train in Barcelona with youth players from all over the world. Naturally, Holly and Michael jumped at the chance—not just for the elite soccer training, but for the cultural immersion and adventure that came with it.

While the boys stayed in dorms with their fellow international campers, Holly and Michael explored the city—and adjusted to being temporarily “abandoned” by their sons. “We were a little apprehensive about them getting homesick,” they admitted. “But unexpectedly, we dropped them off, and they never looked back!” The kids were thriving with their new teammates, forming friendships with players from across North America and Europe. “We could feel them growing up a little right before our eyes.”

Barcelona dazzled the Bodners with its rich culture and historic beauty. Their home base for the trip was the Gothic District—a charming neighborhood with narrow cobbled streets, stunning architecture, and bustling plazas full of artisans and local life. “It was awesome to go out of our room and into the plaza to people-watch and explore,” they said.

While the boys were busy on the pitch, Holly and Michael took time to enjoy Barcelona’s iconic sights. Highlights included touring the FC Barcelona Museum, the surreal Sagrada Familia, and two of Antoni Gaudí’s most famous creations—La Pedrera and Park Güell.

Food was also a major part of the experience. Holly became a fan of the sangria and Michael sampled local delicacies like octopus and seafood paella. Meanwhile, the kids loved visiting the open-air market on La Rambla, where they indulged in homemade candies and sweet treats.

The heart of the trip, though, was the chance to watch Beckett and Bauer play matches against local youth teams—some of which have been around for over a century. “Our favorite part, by far, was watching the boys play against the local Barcelona clubs,” said Michael. “The fans were so welcoming. Experiencing ‘futbol’ the way it’s woven into the Spanish culture—where every generation shares the same passion—was unforgettable.”

The boys embraced every moment, exchanging high-fives during matches and bonding with players on the opposing teams afterward. “It was amazing to watch those friendships form in real time,” said Holly. “Knowing this is something they’ll remember for the rest of their lives—that’s what we’ll cherish the most.”

Would they go back? “Absolutely,” says the family without hesitation. Their advice to others considering Barcelona?

As for any disappointments? “Only that the boys didn’t want to hang out with us more!” Holly jokes. But that sense of independence and growth was, in the end, part of what made the journey so meaningful.

From youth soccer dreams to rich cultural exploration, the Bodners’ Barcelona trip was a winning combination of play, passion, and priceless family memories—on and off the field.