'People keep ribbing me' about the Ashes concluding prior to my arrival.
Golden sun, savory pies and iconic stadiums - what else would an England cricket fan ask for?
Realistically, they'd hope for an contest for the urn in Australia where they remain in contention to secure the famous trophy once the opening games are done.
That will not be happening during this tour, after the hosts' dominant triumph in Adelaide gave Australia with a 3-0 lead for the fourth consecutive series on Australian grounds.
England's famous supporters' group, England's supporters' group, have a large group flying out for the concluding fixtures in New South Wales and Victoria.
In addition, there are travel parties who will be vacationing overseas, as well as loved ones planning a dream holiday.
The Ryding Siblings
Four fans named Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie are among those affected.
The four siblings had their travel arrangements and match passes secured for the Boxing Day and New Year Tests "12 months ago", dreaming of a historic English victory.
Instead, they have watched Australia dismantle the tourists in just a short period from their family home in Penwortham, Lancashire.
"People in the office has been making comments about it being over for the last two weeks," stated Sam Ryding.
"The hope was that we would have the series on the line by the time we arrived."
Diminishing Hope
Optimism was high concerning a potential victory of ending their 15-year wait for a victory down under before it began.
Yet now they are facing the prospect of prolonging a streak without victory in the country to 19 games when the fourth Test gets under way in the MCG on Christmas Day.
The England team - and their fans - will be hoping to sidestep a dreaded 5-0 scoreline.
Alex said the "thrill and enjoyment" of head coach the aggressive 'Bazball' approach in recent years had "brought fresh energy to" the five-day game for followers of the team.
However, the group said they had minimal hopes for the final two games - and all they are requesting from the players is "a show of spirit".
"All analysts alludes to it, but it all is about mental resilience. 'This style has been elevated to a term now that is just, like, unrealistic play," added Rory.
"Over the course of five days, you should apply yourself. Chasing balls 'sixth stump' areas has never been in the coaching manuals, and that is largely because of the top order."
The Remaining Matches
Prompted about he believed England will triumph in a Test in this contest, came the reply: "The evidence suggests the Australians are superior right now."
"It will require multiple performers that delivers for the team and makes a big impact."
Even with the series lost, the siblings are still anticipating the trip.
"We will have a wonderful trip regardless," said Katie. "We must adopt that outlook."
"Naturally, it's a let-down we can't contest the series, but we have spent so much money already."
"We plan to savor having Christmas and New Year out there. Additionally, it's our first experience away from home over Christmas."
An educator, Katie is intent on maximizing the long-haul travel as part of her Christmas holidays.
"As a backup plan, there's always golf to rely on," she added.