'I'm getting constant stick' about the Ashes concluding prior to my arrival.
Golden sun, savory pies and iconic stadiums - what more could an Three Lions follower desire?
Well, perhaps an Ashes series in Australia where they still have a chance to reclaim the urn once the opening games are done.
That will not be happening on this occasion, however, after the hosts' dominant triumph in Adelaide put the hosts with a 3-0 lead for the fourth successive Ashes series on Australian grounds.
The loyal traveling fans, the vocal contingent, have 3,000 fans flying out for the final two Tests in Sydney and Melbourne.
There are also tour groups who will be vacationing in Australia, as well as loved ones embarking on a special expedition.
The Disappointed Travelers
Four fans named Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie are among those affected.
The four siblings had their itineraries and entry credentials arranged for the Boxing Day and New Year Tests "a full year in advance", anticipating a rare England series success.
Instead, they have watched Australia defeat England convincingly in just 11 days from their residence in their hometown.
"All my colleagues has been giving me grief regarding the concluded contest for the last two weeks," stated Sam Ryding.
"Our expectation had been that we would have the series on the line by the time we arrived."
Lowered Expectations
Optimism was high concerning a potential victory of securing a first win in 15 years for a triumph on Australian soil ahead of the tour.
Yet now they are looking at the possibility of continuing a barren spell in the country to 19 matches when the fourth Test gets under way in Melbourne this week.
The tourists - and their fans - will be keen to prevent a whitewash.
One sibling noted the "entertainment" of head coach the positive style of play in recent years had "brought fresh energy to" the five-day game for England fans.
But the Ryding siblings said they had minimal hopes for the remaining matches - and all they are hoping for from the players is "a show of spirit".
"Commentators consistently alludes to it, but it all comes down to fortitude. 'The aggressive approach has been elevated to a term now that is just, like, nonsense cricket," added Rory.
"In a five-day Test match, you should dig in. Chasing balls 'sixth stump' areas has never been in the coaching manuals, and that is mainly the fault the batting lineup."
The Remaining Matches
Prompted about he believed England will secure a victory in this Ashes series, Sam said: "The evidence suggests the Aussies are just too good currently."
"It will require multiple performers that delivers for the team and turns the game."
Even with the series lost, the fans are excited about the trip.
"We will have a wonderful trip anyway," commented Katie Ryding. "Our approach is that mindset."
"Of course, it's unfortunate we don't have more to play for, but we have made a substantial financial commitment as it is."
"We'll enjoy celebrating the holidays in Australia. Additionally, it's mine and Rory's first time abroad over Christmas."
An educator, Katie is focused on enjoying the lengthy journey as part of her Christmas holidays.
"Should the cricket disappoint, I can play golf to rely on," Katie concluded.