The Spectator Spirit: If You'd Rather Just Watch; Start planning now for this summer's two great sporting events. You're up against some hard-core fans.

Byline: Tara Pepper, With Toula Vlahou in Athens

A passion for sports has taken Australian fan Woz Livingstone, 30, to 150 countries around the world. He's followed cricket to the West Indies, Sri Lanka, Zimbabwe, Dubai, India and England--to name just a few. Greek football fan Nikiforos Skampavias, 24, has crisscrossed Europe to cheer on his squad and prides himself on using his connections to travel with them on the team plane. And on Valentine's Day in Paris this year, starry-eyed couples were outnumbered by gangs of young men sporting Ireland's bright green rugby shirt, sharing a pint over breakfast while waiting for their country to play France. Contrary to popular belief, sports fanaticism can be downright broadening, as these fans can attest. "They're getting the travel, new cities, new people," says Temple University psychologist Frank Farley. "It can become a way of life."

This summer, two major sporting events will enable even the most unathletic observer to join the excitement while soaking up a little culture: football's European Championship will be contested in Portugal between June 12 and July 4, and the Athens Olympics will take place from Aug. 13 to 29. But those contemplating going had better start planning now; you're competing with fans who live and breathe this stuff.

Olympic athletes, officials and journalists snapped up many Athens hotel rooms long ago. One of the best alternatives is to rent a private villa or apartment through filoxenia2004.com, which still has availability for groups of two to six for a six-night stay. Prices range from $3,045 to $7,000 total, including air conditioning (you'll need it), satellite TV, maid service and airport transfers. Filoxenia can also arrange tickets for all events--even the most sought-after opening and closing ceremonies, track ...