'Everyone's giving me grief' regarding the Ashes finishing ahead of my trip.
Beautiful weather, classic snacks and legendary venues - what else would an supporter of the English team ask for?
Ideally, they'd want an contest for the urn in Australia where they remain in contention to reclaim the urn after the first three Tests.
Unfortunately, this scenario is off the table this time, though, after the hosts' dominant triumph in Adelaide gave Australia leading three-nil for the fourth straight contest on home turf.
The Barmy Army, the vocal contingent, have a large group flying out for the last two matches in Sydney and Melbourne.
In addition, there are travel parties who will spend the Christmas period in Australia, as well as relatives and companions planning a dream holiday.
The Disappointed Travelers
Four fans named Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie are among those affected.
The four siblings had their flights and tickets secured for the fourth and fifth Tests "12 months ago", hoping to witness a rare England series success.
Sadly, they've observed Australia outplay the visitors in just a short period from their house in the north of England.
"Everyone at work has been giving me grief about it being over for the last two weeks," commented one sibling.
"We always thought that we would have something to play for upon our arrival."
Fading Positivity
Hope was abundant concerning a potential victory of breaking a 15-year drought for a series win in Australia ahead of the tour.
However, the situation is now looking at the possibility of prolonging a streak without victory in the country to 19 consecutive Tests when the fourth Test gets under way in the MCG on Christmas Day.
The tourists - and their supporters - will be desperate to avoid a whitewash.
One sibling noted the "entertainment" of head coach Brendon McCullum's 'Bazball' in recent years had "renewed interest in" the longest format for England fans.
However, the group said they had low expectations for the fourth and fifth Tests - and all they are asking for from the players is "a show of spirit".
"Commentators consistently points it out, but it all is about fortitude. 'Bazball' has been turned into a buzzword now that is just, like, nonsense cricket," commented another sibling.
"During a long match, you should hunker down. Playing at deliveries 'outside the line has never been in the textbooks, and that is primarily due to the frontline batsmen."
Looking Ahead
Prompted about he believed England will win a match in the current series, came the reply: "It looks like the hosts are a stronger side at the moment."
"It will require more than one player that delivers for the team and makes a big impact."
Even with the series lost, the siblings are still excited about the trip.
"We are going to have a great time anyway," said Katie. "We have to go with that attitude."
"Of course, it's disappointing we don't have more to play for, but we have made a substantial financial commitment already."
"We plan to savor celebrating the holidays in Australia. It is also a new experience for us abroad during the festive period."
An educator, Katie is focused on enjoying the 21,000-mile round-trip as part of her time off.
"If all else fails, I can play golf to turn to," Katie concluded.