'I'm getting constant stick' over the series being over before I get there.
Golden sun, savory pies and iconic stadiums - what more could an supporter of the English team possibly want?
Realistically, they'd hope for an Ashes series in Australia where they still have a chance to reclaim the urn once the opening games are done.
That will not be happening this time, though, after the hosts' dominant victory by 82 runs in Adelaide left the home side 3-0 up for the fourth straight contest on their own soil.
England's famous supporters' group, the vocal contingent, have 3,000 fans traveling for the final two Tests in Sydney and Melbourne.
In addition, there are tour groups who will celebrate the holidays in Australia, as well as relatives and companions planning a special expedition.
The Ryding Siblings
Four fans named Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie are a prime example.
The four siblings had their travel arrangements and match passes arranged for the fourth and fifth Tests "a full year in advance", dreaming of a long-awaited triumph.
Sadly, they've observed Australia outplay the visitors in just 11 days from their house in their hometown.
"All my colleagues has been giving me grief regarding the concluded contest for the last two weeks," stated Sam Ryding.
"The hope was that we would have a meaningful contest by the time we arrived."
Fading Positivity
Optimism was high about England's chances of breaking a 15-year drought for a series win in Australia prior to the first ball.
But they are now facing the prospect of continuing a barren spell in the country to 19 consecutive Tests when the next match starts in Melbourne on Thursday, 25 December.
Ben Stokes' side - and their supporters - will be keen to prevent a dreaded 5-0 scoreline.
One sibling noted the "entertainment" of head coach the aggressive 'Bazball' approach in recent times had "brought fresh energy to" Test cricket for English supporters.
But the Ryding siblings said they had minimal hopes for the fourth and fifth Tests - and all they are asking for from the players is "a bit of fight".
"Every pundit alludes to it, but it all hinges on fortitude. 'This style has been turned into a buzzword now that is just, like, nonsense cricket," commented another sibling.
"During a long match, you should dig in. Playing at deliveries 'outside the line has never been in the fundamentals, and that is primarily due to the frontline batsmen."
The Remaining Matches
Asked whether he believed England will triumph in a Test in this contest, Sam said: "It appears the hosts are a stronger side currently."
"It will require more than one player that stands up for England and turns the game."
Even with the series lost, the group remains looking forward to the trip.
"We are going to have a wonderful trip regardless," said Katie. "We have to go with that mindset."
"Obviously it is disappointing we aren't fighting for more, but we have invested a significant amount already."
"We'll enjoy celebrating the holidays out there. This will be our first experience away from home at this time of year."
A schoolteacher, Katie is focused on enjoying the long-haul travel as part of her Christmas holidays.
"As a backup plan, there's always golf to turn to," Katie concluded.