'People keep ribbing me' about the series 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 remain in contention to win back the Ashes after the first three Tests.
This is not the case on this occasion, however, after the hosts' dominant 82-run win in Adelaide left the home side leading three-nil for the fourth straight contest on their own soil.
The loyal traveling fans, England's supporters' group, have a large group flying out for the final two Tests in New South Wales and Victoria.
Furthermore, other tour groups who will celebrate the holidays down under, as well as loved ones embarking on a dream holiday.
The Disappointed Travelers
Four fans named Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie are a prime example.
Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie had their itineraries and entry credentials secured for the fourth and fifth Tests "12 months ago", hoping to witness a rare England series success.
From afar, they've seen Australia dismantle the tourists in just under two weeks from their family home in the north of England.
"All my colleagues has been giving me grief about it being over for the last two weeks," stated Sam Ryding.
"Our expectation had been that we would have the series on the line upon our arrival."
Lowered Expectations
Hope was abundant concerning a potential victory of ending their 15-year wait for a victory down under ahead of the tour.
Yet now they are facing the prospect of extending their winless run in the country to 19 matches when the fourth Test gets under way in Melbourne on Thursday, 25 December.
The tourists - and their fans - will be keen to prevent a whitewash.
It was mentioned that the "entertainment" of head coach Brendon McCullum's 'Bazball' in the past couple of seasons had "renewed interest in" the longest format for England fans.
Yet the fans said they had minimal hopes for the fourth and fifth Tests - and all they are asking for from the players is "a bit of fight".
"Commentators consistently alludes to it, but it all comes down to psychological strength. 'The aggressive approach has been become a phrase now that is just, like, unrealistic play," stated Rory Ryding.
"Over the course of five days, you should apply yourself. Chasing balls 'outside the line has never featured in the coaching manuals, and that is mainly the fault the top order."
Looking Ahead
Asked whether he believed England will secure a victory in the current series, came the reply: "It appears the Australians are superior right now."
"There is going to have to be multiple performers that delivers for the team and makes a big impact."
Even with the series lost, the siblings are still excited about the trip.
"We will have a wonderful trip nonetheless," commented Katie Ryding. "Our approach is that attitude."
"Obviously it is a let-down we can't contest the series, but we have made a substantial financial commitment by now."
"We'll enjoy having Christmas and New Year overseas. Additionally, it's a new experience for us abroad at this time of year."
An educator, Katie is determined to make the most of the long-haul travel as part of her time off.
"If all else fails, I can play golf to fall back on," Katie concluded.
