'Everyone's giving me grief' regarding the series concluding prior to my arrival.
Golden sun, savory pies and iconic stadiums - what else would an Three Lions follower ask for?
Well, perhaps an Ashes series in Australia where they remain in contention to reclaim the urn once the opening games are done.
Unfortunately, this scenario is off the table during this tour, after a comprehensive victory by 82 runs in Adelaide left the home side 3-0 up for the fourth successive Ashes series on their own soil.
The loyal traveling fans, the organized fan base, have 3,000 fans flying out for the final two Tests in Sydney and Melbourne.
Furthermore, other organized trips who will be vacationing down under, as well as families and friends embarking on a dream holiday.
The Ryding Siblings
Four fans named Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie are four such fans.
The four siblings had their flights and tickets booked for the fourth and fifth Tests "12 months ago", dreaming of a rare England series success.
Instead, they have watched Australia dismantle the tourists in just 11 days from their family home in their hometown.
"People in the office has been teasing me regarding the concluded contest for the last two weeks," said Sam.
"Our expectation had been that we would have something to play for upon our arrival."
Fading Positivity
Optimism was high regarding the team's prospects of breaking a 15-year drought for a series win in Australia before it began.
However, the situation is now looking at the possibility of continuing a barren spell in the country to 19 games when the next match starts in Melbourne this week.
Ben Stokes' side - and their followers - will be desperate to avoid a whitewash.
One sibling noted the "thrill and enjoyment" of head coach the aggressive 'Bazball' approach in the past couple of seasons had "brought fresh energy to" the longest format for England fans.
However, the group said they had realistic outlooks for the final two games - and all they are hoping for from the players is "a show of spirit".
"Every pundit points it out, but it all hinges on fortitude. 'Bazball' has been become a phrase now that is just, like, unrealistic play," stated Rory Ryding.
"In a five-day Test match, you should hunker down. Playing at deliveries 'outside the line has not been part of the fundamentals, and that is mainly the fault the frontline batsmen."
Looking Ahead
Asked whether he believed England will win a match in this Ashes series, one fan responded: "It looks like the Australians are superior at the moment."
"Necessarily, there must be multiple performers that makes a significant contribution and makes a big impact."
Even with the series lost, the siblings are still looking forward to the trip.
"It will be a fantastic experience anyway," added another sibling. "Our approach is that attitude."
"Naturally, it's disappointing we can't contest the series, but we have invested a significant amount already."
"We'll enjoy having Christmas and New Year out there. Additionally, it's a new experience for us traveling over Christmas."
A schoolteacher, Katie is intent on maximizing the lengthy journey as part of her seasonal break.
"Should the cricket disappoint, I can play golf to turn to," she added.