'Everyone's giving me grief' over the Ashes concluding prior to my arrival.
Golden sun, savory pies and iconic stadiums - what else would an Three Lions follower ask for?
Realistically, they'd hope for an contest for the urn in Australia where they still have a chance to secure the famous trophy once the opening games are done.
Unfortunately, this scenario is off the table during this tour, after Australia's crushing triumph in Adelaide put the hosts with a 3-0 lead for the fourth successive Ashes series on home turf.
The Barmy Army, the organized fan base, have thousands of supporters traveling for the concluding fixtures in the SCG and MCG.
There are also tour groups who will celebrate the holidays overseas, as well as relatives and companions embarking on a special expedition.
The Disappointed Travelers
The Ryding siblings are a prime example.
The four siblings had their travel arrangements and match passes booked for the Melbourne and Sydney matches "a full year in advance", hoping to witness a rare England series success.
Sadly, they've observed Australia outplay the visitors in just a short period from their residence in their hometown.
"People in the office has been giving me grief that the series is done for the last two weeks," commented one sibling.
"The hope was that we would have something to play for upon our arrival."
Diminishing Hope
Hope was abundant regarding the team's prospects of securing a first win in 15 years for a triumph on Australian soil ahead of the tour.
But they are now staring down the barrel of extending their winless run in the country to 19 matches when the next match starts in the MCG on Christmas Day.
The England team - and their fans - will be desperate to avoid a dreaded 5-0 scoreline.
Alex said the "thrill and enjoyment" of head coach the positive style of play in recent times had "brought fresh energy to" the longest format for England fans.
However, the group said they had minimal hopes for the final two games - and all they are asking for from the players is "some resilience".
"All analysts references this, but it all comes down to mental resilience. 'This style has been become a phrase now that is just, like, impractical batting," commented another sibling.
"In a five-day Test match, you should apply yourself. Chasing balls 'wide of off stump has never been in the textbooks, and that is largely because of the top order."
The Remaining Matches
Prompted about he believed England will win a match in this contest, one fan responded: "It appears the hosts are a stronger side right now."
"It will require multiple performers that makes a significant contribution and produces a match-winning display."
Regardless of the result, the group remains looking forward to the trip.
"It will be a great time anyway," added another sibling. "Our approach is that attitude."
"Of course, it's unfortunate we aren't fighting for more, but we have invested a significant amount by now."
"We will make the most of celebrating the holidays in Australia. This will be a new experience for us abroad during the festive period."
A schoolteacher, Katie is intent on maximizing the lengthy journey as part of her seasonal break.
"As a backup plan, I can play golf to rely on," Katie concluded.