It might seem like it will never finish, but the end of the World Cup is in sight, with the quarter-finals starting tomorrow night (30 June). While the end of the football tournament will no doubt dismay a lot of people, there are some who can't wait for 10 July.
Most pubs, bars and restaurants have cashed in on the opportunity to bring in football fans but there's also a thriving market among those who couldn't give a sick parrot about the beautfiul game of two halves.
Hotels in particular have really recognised the potential spending power of World Cup widows, and are offering every type of secluded pampering day imaginable.
Seaham Hall in County Durham is offering a World Cup escape ritual which includes a full day at the Serenity Spa with lunch and a signature facial for £99. Customers can spend the entire day relaxing in the pools, hot tubs, saunas and steam rooms, and work up an appetite in the fitness suite. One thing's for sure - the food will be a lot better than the pies and lager in the stands.
The Westin Turnberry Resort in Ayrshire, Scotland, is offering a "Ban it Like Beckham" package. Treatments in the spa, girlie movies, ice-cream, chocolates and Moët are included at £355 for an overnight stay with two adults sharing a twin room. A late checkout - up to 4pm - means you can have a lie-in, too.
Malmaison has a World Cup widows break, including dinner, wine, unlimited Häagen-Dazs and either a chick flick or a soppy movie, at £175 for two adults sharing a twin room.
If you want to join in the fun but really have no idea what the offside rule is and wouldn't know your Ronaldinho from your Rooney, then the Metro Centre in Gateshead is where you should head. On 5 July the footballers' wives evening of shopping and fashion will let you compete with Coleen or Posh.
Whatever tactics you employ to get you through these last eight matches, remember there's another four years before it happens again.
By Alix Young