'People keep ribbing me' over the series finishing before I get there.
Golden sun, savory pies and iconic stadiums - what more could an supporter of the English team possibly want?
Well, perhaps an Ashes series in Australia where they still have a chance to win back the Ashes once the opening games are done.
That will not be happening on this occasion, however, after Australia's crushing triumph in Adelaide gave Australia leading three-nil for the fourth consecutive series on their own soil.
The loyal traveling fans, the organized fan base, have thousands of supporters flying out for the final two Tests in the SCG and MCG.
Furthermore, other tour groups who will be vacationing in Australia, as well as families and friends planning a dream holiday.
The Disappointed Travelers
Four fans named Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie are among those affected.
Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie had their travel arrangements and match passes secured for the fourth and fifth Tests "a full year in advance", dreaming of a rare England series success.
Sadly, they've observed Australia outplay the visitors in just 11 days from their residence in the north of England.
"Everyone at work has been teasing me about it being over for the last two weeks," said Sam.
"The hope was that we would have a meaningful contest upon our arrival."
Fading Positivity
Hope was abundant regarding the team's prospects of breaking a 15-year drought for a victory down under ahead of the tour.
But they are now looking at the possibility of continuing a barren spell in the country to 19 games when the Boxing Day Test begins in Melbourne on Thursday, 25 December.
Ben Stokes' side - and their followers - will be desperate to avoid a whitewash.
One sibling noted the "entertainment" of head coach the aggressive 'Bazball' approach in recent years had "reinvigorated" the five-day game for followers of the team.
Yet the fans said they had minimal hopes for the final two games - and all they are asking for from the players is "some resilience".
"Commentators consistently points it out, but it all is about psychological strength. 'The aggressive approach has been become a phrase now that is just, like, nonsense cricket," commented another sibling.
"Over the course of five days, you should hunker down. Wafting outside 'outside the line has never featured in the fundamentals, and that is mainly the fault the top order."
Future Prospects
When questioned if he believed England will triumph in a Test in this contest, came the reply: "It looks like the Australians are superior right now."
"It will require multiple performers that makes a significant contribution and makes a big impact."
Regardless of the result, the group remains excited about the trip.
"It will be a fantastic experience regardless," commented Katie Ryding. "Our approach is that mindset."
"Of course, it's disappointing we can't contest the series, but we have invested a significant amount already."
"We will make the most of celebrating the holidays out there. Additionally, it's our first experience traveling at this time of year."
An educator, Katie is intent on maximizing the lengthy journey as part of her seasonal break.
"If all else fails, I've got golf to fall back on," she finished.