'Everyone's giving me grief' regarding the Ashes finishing before I get there.
Golden sun, savory pies and iconic stadiums - what more could an Three Lions follower ask for?
Realistically, they'd hope for an Ashes series in Australia where they retain a possibility to secure the famous trophy after the first three Tests.
That will not be happening on this occasion, however, after the hosts' dominant victory by 82 runs in Adelaide put the hosts with a 3-0 lead for the fourth consecutive series on their own soil.
The loyal traveling fans, England's supporters' group, have thousands of supporters traveling for the final two Tests in the SCG and MCG.
There are also organized trips who will be vacationing in Australia, as well as relatives and companions embarking on a special expedition.
The Disappointed Travelers
A group of four supporters are a prime example.
The four siblings had their itineraries and entry credentials booked for the Melbourne and Sydney matches "well ahead of time", dreaming of a rare England series success.
From afar, they've seen Australia outplay the visitors in just a short period from their house in their hometown.
"All my colleagues has been making comments about it being over for the last two weeks," stated Sam Ryding.
"Our expectation had been that we would have a meaningful contest upon our arrival."
Fading Positivity
There was plenty of positivity concerning a potential victory of breaking a 15-year drought for a victory down under prior to the first ball.
But they are now staring down the barrel of extending their winless run in the country to 19 consecutive Tests when the fourth Test gets under way in Melbourne this week.
The England team - and their followers - will be hoping to sidestep a clean sweep.
Alex said the "excitement and fun" of head coach Brendon McCullum's 'Bazball' in recent years had "reinvigorated" Test cricket for England fans.
However, the group said they had realistic outlooks for the remaining matches - and all they are asking for from the players is "a show of spirit".
"Commentators consistently references this, but it all is about mental resilience. 'Bazball' has been turned into a buzzword now that is just, like, unrealistic play," stated Rory Ryding.
"Over the course of five days, you should hunker down. Playing at deliveries 'outside the line has never been in the fundamentals, and that is largely because of the frontline batsmen."
Looking Ahead
Asked whether he believed England will triumph in a Test in the current series, came the reply: "It looks like the hosts are a stronger side at the moment."
"Necessarily, there must be several individuals that delivers for the team and turns the game."
Even with the series lost, the fans are looking forward to the trip.
"We are going to have a great time nonetheless," commented Katie Ryding. "Our approach is that attitude."
"Naturally, it's disappointing we can't contest the series, but we have invested a significant amount already."
"We plan to savor having Christmas and New Year overseas. This will be a new experience for us abroad during the festive period."
A schoolteacher, Katie is determined to make the most of the long-haul travel as part of her Christmas holidays.
"If all else fails, I can play golf to fall back on," Katie concluded.