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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 remain in contention to win back the Ashes after the first three Tests.

Unfortunately, this scenario is off the table during this tour, after the hosts' dominant victory by 82 runs in Adelaide put the hosts 3-0 up for the fourth straight contest on their own soil.

The Barmy Army, the organized fan base, have a large group making the journey for the final two Tests in Sydney and Melbourne.

Furthermore, other organized trips who will spend the Christmas period in Australia, as well as families and friends heading for a special expedition.

The Disappointed Travelers

A group of four supporters are four such fans.

The four siblings had their flights and tickets secured for the fourth and fifth Tests "12 months ago", anticipating a historic English victory.

Sadly, they've observed Australia defeat England convincingly in just under two weeks from their residence in the north of England.

"People in the office has been giving me grief regarding the concluded contest for the last two weeks," said Sam.

"The hope was that we would have the series on the line still when we got there."

Diminishing Hope

Optimism was high regarding the team's prospects of breaking a 15-year drought for a series win in Australia before it began.

But they are now looking at the possibility of continuing a barren spell in the country to 19 consecutive Tests when the Boxing Day Test begins in Melbourne this week.

The tourists - and their supporters - will be keen to prevent a dreaded 5-0 scoreline.

Alex said the "thrill and enjoyment" of head coach Brendon McCullum's 'Bazball' in recent years had "reinvigorated" Test cricket for English supporters.

But the Ryding siblings said they had realistic outlooks for the final two games - and all they are asking for from the players is "a bit of fight".

"Commentators consistently alludes to it, but it all hinges on fortitude. 'This style has been become a phrase now that is just, like, nonsense cricket," added Rory.

"During a long match, you should hunker down. Playing at deliveries 'outside the line has never been in the coaching manuals, and that is largely because of the top order."

Looking Ahead

When questioned if he believed England will triumph in a Test in this Ashes series, came the reply: "It looks like the hosts are a stronger side right now."

"Necessarily, there must be more than one player that makes a significant contribution and produces a match-winning display."

Regardless of the result, the group remains anticipating the trip.

"We will have a great time anyway," commented Katie Ryding. "We have to go with that mindset."

"Naturally, it's disappointing we aren't fighting for more, but we have invested a significant amount already."

"We'll enjoy having Christmas and New Year in Australia. This will be mine and Rory's first time abroad over Christmas."

An educator, Katie is determined to make the most of the lengthy journey as part of her time off.

"As a backup plan, I can play golf to rely on," Katie concluded.