'Everyone's giving me grief' regarding the Ashes finishing ahead of my trip.
Beautiful weather, classic snacks and legendary venues - what else would an England cricket fan possibly want?
Well, perhaps an Ashes series in Australia where they retain a possibility to secure the famous trophy once the opening games are done.
That will not be happening this time, though, after a comprehensive triumph in Adelaide put the hosts with a 3-0 lead for the fourth straight contest on home turf.
The loyal traveling fans, England's supporters' group, have 3,000 fans traveling for the last two matches in Sydney and Melbourne.
There are also organized trips who will be vacationing overseas, as well as relatives and companions heading for a special expedition.
The Ryding Siblings
The Ryding siblings are among those affected.
Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie had their travel arrangements and match passes arranged for the Boxing Day and New Year Tests "well ahead of time", hoping to witness a rare England series success.
Sadly, they've observed Australia dismantle the tourists in just a short period from their family home in their hometown.
"All my colleagues has been giving me grief regarding the concluded contest for the last two weeks," said Sam.
"We always thought that we would have the series on the line upon our arrival."
Diminishing Hope
Hope was abundant about England's chances of breaking a 15-year drought for a triumph on Australian soil before it began.
However, the situation is now looking at the possibility of prolonging a streak without victory in the country to 19 games when the Boxing Day Test begins in the MCG on Christmas Day.
The England team - and their supporters - will be hoping to sidestep a dreaded 5-0 scoreline.
One sibling noted the "entertainment" of head coach the aggressive 'Bazball' approach in recent years had "brought fresh energy to" Test cricket for England fans.
Yet the fans said they had realistic outlooks for the final two games - and all they are asking for from the players is "a show of spirit".
"All analysts alludes to it, but it all hinges on mental resilience. 'The aggressive approach has been turned into a buzzword now that is just, like, impractical batting," stated Rory Ryding.
"Over the course of five days, you should dig in. Chasing balls 'sixth stump' areas has never featured in the textbooks, and that is primarily due to the batting lineup."
Future Prospects
When questioned if he believed England will win a match in this Ashes series, came the reply: "It appears the hosts are a stronger side at the moment."
"There is going to have to be multiple performers that delivers for the team and produces a match-winning display."
Despite the scoreline, the siblings are still excited about the trip.
"It will be a wonderful trip anyway," added another sibling. "We have to go with that outlook."
"Of course, it's unfortunate we don't have more to play for, but we have made a substantial financial commitment as it is."
"We will make the most of spending the festive season out there. Additionally, it's our first experience away from home at this time of year."
A teacher, Katie is determined to make the most of the lengthy journey as part of her time off.
"Should the cricket disappoint, there's always golf to rely on," Katie concluded.