'People keep ribbing me' regarding the series finishing before I get there.
Beautiful weather, classic snacks and legendary venues - what else would an England cricket fan possibly want?
Realistically, they'd hope for an Ashes series in Australia where they retain a possibility to win back the Ashes after the first three Tests.
Unfortunately, this scenario is off the table this time, though, after the hosts' dominant triumph in Adelaide gave Australia leading three-nil for the fourth successive Ashes series on Australian grounds.
The Barmy Army, the vocal contingent, have 3,000 fans flying out for the final two Tests in New South Wales and Victoria.
Furthermore, other tour groups who will be vacationing overseas, as well as loved ones heading for a special expedition.
The Ryding Siblings
A group of four supporters are among those affected.
Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie had their itineraries and entry credentials arranged for the fourth and fifth Tests "well ahead of time", dreaming of a long-awaited triumph.
Instead, they have watched Australia defeat England convincingly in just under two weeks from their family home in the north of England.
"Everyone at work has been giving me grief regarding the concluded contest for the last two weeks," said Sam.
"The hope was that we would have something to play for by the time we arrived."
Lowered Expectations
Hope was abundant concerning a potential victory of securing a first win in 15 years for a victory down under before it began.
Yet now they are facing the prospect of extending their winless run in the country to 19 games when the next match starts in the MCG on Christmas Day.
The tourists - and their followers - will be keen to prevent a clean sweep.
It was mentioned that the "entertainment" of head coach the positive style of play in the past couple of seasons had "reinvigorated" the longest format for English supporters.
However, the group said they had realistic outlooks for the remaining matches - and all they are hoping for from the players is "a bit of fight".
"Commentators consistently references this, but it all comes down to psychological strength. 'This style has been turned into a buzzword now that is just, like, unrealistic play," stated Rory Ryding.
"Over the course of five days, you should apply yourself. Wafting outside 'outside the line has not been part of the coaching manuals, and that is mainly the fault the batting lineup."
The Remaining Matches
When questioned if 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 several individuals that delivers for the team and makes a big impact."
Even with the series lost, the siblings are still looking forward to the trip.
"We will have a fantastic experience regardless," added another sibling. "We have to go with that attitude."
"Obviously it is a let-down we aren't fighting for more, but we have invested a significant amount already."
"We will make the most of spending the festive season overseas. Additionally, it's our first experience away from home during the festive period."
A schoolteacher, Katie is focused on enjoying the long-haul travel as part of her seasonal break.
"Should the cricket disappoint, there's always golf to turn to," she added.