'Everyone's giving me grief' about the Ashes being over prior to my arrival.
Golden sun, savory pies and iconic stadiums - what more could an supporter of the English team possibly want?
Realistically, they'd hope for an Ashes series in Australia where they retain a possibility to reclaim the urn following the initial matches.
That will not be happening on this occasion, however, after the hosts' dominant victory by 82 runs in Adelaide left the home side 3-0 up for the fourth straight contest on Australian grounds.
England's famous supporters' group, England's supporters' group, have 3,000 fans flying out for the concluding fixtures in New South Wales and Victoria.
There are also organized trips who will spend the Christmas period down under, as well as loved ones heading for a once-in-a-lifetime trip.
The Disappointed Travelers
Four fans named Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie are a prime example.
The four siblings had their flights and tickets secured for the Boxing Day and New Year Tests "12 months ago", dreaming of a rare England series success.
From afar, they've seen Australia defeat England convincingly in just 11 days from their family home in their hometown.
"All my colleagues has been making comments regarding the concluded contest for the last two weeks," stated Sam Ryding.
"We always thought that we would have something to play for still when we got there."
Fading Positivity
There was plenty of positivity regarding the team's prospects of ending their 15-year wait for a triumph on Australian soil prior to the first ball.
However, the situation is now looking at the possibility of extending their winless run in the country to 19 games when the next match starts in Melbourne this week.
The tourists - and their followers - will be keen to prevent a clean sweep.
It was mentioned that the "entertainment" of head coach the aggressive 'Bazball' approach in recent times had "reinvigorated" the longest format for England fans.
However, the group said they had minimal hopes for the fourth and fifth Tests - and all they are asking for from the players is "a show of spirit".
"All analysts points it out, but it all comes down to mental resilience. 'The aggressive approach has been become a phrase now that is just, like, nonsense cricket," stated Rory Ryding.
"In a five-day Test match, you should hunker down. Wafting outside 'outside the line has not been part of the textbooks, and that is mainly the fault the top order."
Future Prospects
When questioned if he believed England will triumph in a Test in the current series, Sam said: "The evidence suggests the hosts are a stronger side at the moment."
"There is going to have to be several individuals that delivers for the team and turns the game."
Even with the series lost, the siblings are still anticipating the trip.
"It will be a fantastic experience regardless," said Katie. "Our approach is that outlook."
"Naturally, it's unfortunate we don't have more to play for, but we have spent so much money as it is."
"We plan to savor spending the festive season in Australia. This will be our first experience away from home over Christmas."
A teacher, Katie is focused on enjoying the lengthy journey as part of her time off.
"If all else fails, there's always golf to fall back on," she finished.