'Everyone's giving me grief' over the series being over ahead of my trip.
Sunshine, meat pies and world-famous cricket grounds - what more could an England cricket fan desire?
Realistically, they'd hope for an Ashes series in Australia where they retain a possibility to secure the famous trophy following the initial matches.
That will not be happening during this tour, after a comprehensive victory by 82 runs in Adelaide gave Australia 3-0 up for the fourth straight contest on their own soil.
The loyal traveling fans, England's supporters' group, have thousands of supporters flying out for the final two Tests in the SCG and MCG.
There are also travel parties who will spend the Christmas period down under, as well as loved ones planning a special expedition.
The Disappointed Travelers
A group of four supporters are a prime example.
The group 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 dismantle the tourists in just under two weeks from their residence in the north of England.
"Everyone at work has been giving me grief that the series is done for the last two weeks," said Sam.
"The hope was that we would have the series on the line upon our arrival."
Fading Positivity
Hope was abundant regarding the team's prospects of securing a first win in 15 years for a triumph on Australian soil ahead of the tour.
But they are now looking at the possibility of extending their winless run in the country to 19 consecutive Tests when the next match starts in the MCG on Christmas Day.
The tourists - and their fans - will be keen to prevent a whitewash.
Alex said the "excitement and fun" of head coach the positive style of play in recent years had "renewed interest in" the five-day game for England fans.
Yet the fans said they had minimal hopes for the remaining matches - and all they are asking for from the players is "some resilience".
"Commentators consistently points it out, but it all comes down to fortitude. 'This style has been elevated to a term now that is just, like, nonsense cricket," stated Rory Ryding.
"During a long match, you should hunker down. Chasing balls 'wide of off stump has not been part of the coaching manuals, and that is largely because of the frontline batsmen."
Looking Ahead
When questioned if he believed England will secure a victory in the current series, came the reply: "It appears the hosts are a stronger side currently."
"There is going to have to be multiple performers that makes a significant contribution and turns the game."
Even with the series lost, the fans are looking forward to the trip.
"We will have a wonderful trip regardless," 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 spent so much money by now."
"We'll enjoy having Christmas and New Year in Australia. Additionally, it's our first experience traveling at this time of year."
A schoolteacher, Katie is focused on enjoying the lengthy journey as part of her seasonal break.
"If all else fails, there's always golf to rely on," Katie concluded.