'Everyone's giving me grief' regarding the Ashes being over prior to my arrival.
Sunshine, meat pies and world-famous cricket grounds - what more could an Three Lions follower ask for?
Realistically, they'd hope for an contest for the urn in Australia where they retain a possibility to win back the Ashes following the initial matches.
That will not be happening this time, though, after Australia's crushing victory by 82 runs in Adelaide gave Australia leading three-nil for the fourth successive Ashes series on Australian grounds.
England's famous supporters' group, the vocal contingent, have thousands of supporters flying out for the final two Tests in New South Wales and Victoria.
In addition, there are tour groups who will celebrate the holidays in Australia, as well as relatives and companions embarking on a dream holiday.
The Disappointed Travelers
A group of four supporters are among those affected.
The four siblings had their flights and tickets secured for the Melbourne and Sydney matches "a full year in advance", hoping to witness a long-awaited triumph.
Sadly, they've observed Australia outplay the visitors in just 11 days from their family home in their hometown.
"People in the office has been teasing me 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."
Lowered Expectations
There was plenty of positivity concerning a potential victory of ending their 15-year wait for a series win in Australia before it began.
But they are now facing the prospect of prolonging a streak without victory in the country to 19 matches when the Boxing Day Test begins in Melbourne on Thursday, 25 December.
The tourists - and their fans - will be keen to prevent a dreaded 5-0 scoreline.
One sibling noted the "excitement and fun" of head coach Brendon McCullum's 'Bazball' in recent years had "brought fresh energy to" the five-day game for England fans.
However, the group said they had realistic outlooks for the fourth and fifth Tests - and all they are requesting from the players is "a show of spirit".
"Commentators consistently alludes to it, but it all comes down to mental resilience. 'The aggressive approach has been become a phrase now that is just, like, unrealistic play," commented another sibling.
"During a long match, you should apply yourself. Chasing balls 'sixth stump' areas has never featured in the fundamentals, and that is primarily due to the batting lineup."
Looking Ahead
Prompted about he believed England will triumph in a Test in this Ashes series, Sam said: "It appears the hosts are a stronger side at the moment."
"There is going to have to be several individuals that makes a significant contribution and makes a big impact."
Regardless of the result, the group remains anticipating the trip.
"We are going to have a wonderful trip nonetheless," said Katie. "Our approach is that outlook."
"Naturally, it's disappointing we can't contest the series, but we have invested a significant amount by now."
"We'll enjoy having Christmas and New Year overseas. This will be a new experience for us away from home over Christmas."
A teacher, Katie is determined to make the most of the lengthy journey as part of her time off.
"If all else fails, there's always golf to rely on," she finished.