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Golden sun, savory pies and iconic stadiums - what more could an Three Lions follower ask for?

Well, perhaps an Ashes series in Australia where they still have a chance to win back the Ashes following the initial matches.

Unfortunately, this scenario is off the table during this tour, after the hosts' dominant victory by 82 runs in Adelaide gave Australia 3-0 up for the fourth consecutive series on Australian grounds.

The Barmy Army, England's supporters' group, have a large group traveling for the final two Tests in Sydney and Melbourne.

Furthermore, other organized trips who will be vacationing down under, as well as families and friends planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

The Disappointed Travelers

The Ryding siblings are among those affected.

Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie had their flights and tickets arranged for the Boxing Day and New Year Tests "a full year in advance", anticipating a long-awaited triumph.

From afar, they've seen Australia defeat England convincingly in just 11 days from their residence in Penwortham, Lancashire.

"Everyone at work has been teasing me that the series is done for the last two weeks," stated Sam Ryding.

"Our expectation had been that we would have something to play for upon our arrival."

Lowered Expectations

There was plenty of positivity concerning a potential victory of ending their 15-year wait for a triumph on Australian soil before it began.

However, the situation is now facing the prospect of continuing a barren spell in the country to 19 consecutive Tests when the fourth Test gets under way in Melbourne on Thursday, 25 December.

The England team - and their followers - will be desperate to avoid a clean sweep.

It was mentioned that the "excitement and fun" of head coach Brendon McCullum's 'Bazball' in the past couple of seasons had "brought fresh energy to" the longest format for followers of the team.

Yet the fans said they had realistic outlooks for the remaining matches - and all they are requesting 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, impractical batting," stated Rory Ryding.

"In a five-day Test match, you should hunker down. Chasing balls 'outside the line has never been in the textbooks, and that is largely because of the top order."

Looking Ahead

Asked whether he believed England will win a match in this contest, Sam said: "It looks like the Aussies are just too good currently."

"It will require multiple performers that makes a significant contribution and turns the game."

Even with the series lost, the group remains anticipating the trip.

"We are going to have a wonderful trip regardless," added another sibling. "We must adopt that attitude."

"Naturally, it's unfortunate we don't have more to play for, but we have invested a significant amount by now."

"We plan to savor celebrating the holidays in Australia. This will be our first experience traveling during the festive period."

A teacher, Katie is focused on enjoying the long-haul travel as part of her Christmas holidays.

"Should the cricket disappoint, I can play golf to fall back on," she finished.