'Everyone's giving me grief' over the series being over prior to my arrival.
Golden sun, savory pies and iconic stadiums - what else would an supporter of the English team desire?
Realistically, they'd hope for an Ashes series in Australia where they retain a possibility to reclaim the urn once the opening games are done.
Unfortunately, this scenario is off the table this time, though, after a comprehensive victory by 82 runs in Adelaide put the hosts with a 3-0 lead for the fourth successive Ashes series on their own soil.
The Barmy Army, the vocal contingent, have a large group making the journey for the final two Tests in Sydney and Melbourne.
Furthermore, other tour groups who will be vacationing overseas, as well as relatives and companions embarking on 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 itineraries and entry credentials secured for the fourth and fifth Tests "12 months ago", hoping to witness a rare England series success.
Instead, they have watched Australia dismantle the tourists in just a short period from their family home in the north of England.
"All my colleagues has been making comments regarding the concluded contest for the last two weeks," said Sam.
"Our expectation had been that we would have the series on the line upon our arrival."
Fading Positivity
There was plenty of positivity concerning a potential victory of ending their 15-year wait for a series win in Australia ahead of the tour.
But they are now 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.
Ben Stokes' side - and their supporters - will be hoping to sidestep a whitewash.
Alex said the "excitement and fun" of head coach the positive style of play in recent times had "renewed interest in" the five-day game for followers of the team.
But the Ryding siblings said they had low expectations for the final two games - and all they are asking for from the players is "a show of spirit".
"Commentators consistently alludes to it, but it all is about mental resilience. 'Bazball' has been elevated to a term now that is just, like, impractical batting," added Rory.
"Over the course of five days, you should hunker down. Wafting outside 'outside the line has never been in the textbooks, and that is primarily due to the top order."
The Remaining Matches
Prompted about he believed England will secure a victory in this Ashes series, one fan responded: "The evidence suggests the Aussies are just too good at the moment."
"There is going to have to be more than one player that makes a significant contribution and produces a match-winning display."
Despite the scoreline, the group remains looking forward to the trip.
"It will be a wonderful trip nonetheless," said Katie. "We have to go with that outlook."
"Of course, it's disappointing we don't have more to play for, but we have invested a significant amount as it is."
"We'll enjoy spending the festive season in Australia. It is also mine and Rory's first time abroad during the festive period."
An educator, Katie is intent on maximizing the long-haul travel as part of her Christmas holidays.
"As a backup plan, I've got golf to rely on," she finished.