'People keep ribbing me' regarding the series concluding before I get there.
Beautiful weather, classic snacks and legendary venues - what more could an Three Lions follower ask for?
Ideally, they'd want an Ashes series in Australia where they retain a possibility to reclaim the urn following the initial matches.
That will not be happening on this occasion, however, after Australia's crushing victory by 82 runs in Adelaide put the hosts with a 3-0 lead for the fourth successive Ashes series on Australian grounds.
England's famous supporters' group, the organized fan base, have a large group making the journey for the final two Tests in the SCG and MCG.
Furthermore, other travel parties who will spend the Christmas period overseas, as well as loved ones heading for a special expedition.
Fans with Booked Tickets
Four fans named Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie are four such fans.
Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie had their travel arrangements and match passes booked for the Melbourne and Sydney matches "a full year in advance", hoping to witness a historic English victory.
From afar, they've seen Australia defeat England convincingly in just 11 days from their family home in their hometown.
"Everyone at work has been giving me grief about it being over for the last two weeks," said Sam.
"The hope was that we would have something to play for upon our arrival."
Diminishing Hope
Hope was abundant concerning a potential victory of securing a first win in 15 years for a series win in Australia ahead of the tour.
But they are now staring down the barrel of continuing a barren spell in the country to 19 games when the next match starts in the MCG on Christmas Day.
Ben Stokes' side - and their fans - will be desperate to avoid a clean sweep.
One sibling noted the "excitement and fun" of head coach the aggressive 'Bazball' approach in recent years had "reinvigorated" the five-day game for England fans.
Yet the fans said they had realistic outlooks for the remaining matches - and all they are requesting from the players is "a show of spirit".
"Commentators consistently alludes to it, but it all is about mental resilience. 'This style has been become a phrase now that is just, like, unrealistic play," added Rory.
"Over the course of five days, you should hunker down. Chasing balls 'sixth stump' areas has not been part of the textbooks, and that is primarily due to the top order."
The Remaining Matches
When questioned if he believed England will win a match in the current series, Sam said: "It looks like the Aussies are just too good right now."
"Necessarily, there must be more than one player that delivers for the team and turns the game."
Despite the scoreline, the fans are anticipating the trip.
"It will be a fantastic experience regardless," said Katie. "Our approach is that outlook."
"Obviously it is unfortunate we don't have more to play for, but we have invested a significant amount already."
"We'll enjoy celebrating the holidays out there. Additionally, it's mine and Rory's first time traveling during the festive period."
A teacher, Katie is focused on enjoying the 21,000-mile round-trip as part of her seasonal break.
"Should the cricket disappoint, I can play golf to fall back on," she added.