'Everyone's giving me grief' regarding the Ashes finishing before I get there.
Beautiful weather, classic snacks and legendary venues - what more could an England cricket fan possibly want?
Well, perhaps an Ashes series in Australia where they retain a possibility to reclaim the urn once the opening games are done.
That will not be happening during this tour, after Australia's crushing victory by 82 runs in Adelaide gave Australia 3-0 up for the fourth consecutive series on Australian grounds.
The Barmy Army, the vocal contingent, have thousands of supporters flying out for the last two matches in Sydney and Melbourne.
Furthermore, other travel parties who will be vacationing overseas, as well as families and friends embarking on a special expedition.
The Disappointed Travelers
Four fans named Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie are a prime example.
Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie had their flights and tickets secured for the Boxing Day and New Year Tests "well ahead of time", dreaming of a long-awaited triumph.
Sadly, they've observed Australia defeat England convincingly in just a short period from their residence in Penwortham, Lancashire.
"People in the office has been teasing me that the series is done for the last two weeks," stated Sam Ryding.
"We always thought that we would have the series on the line still when we got there."
Fading Positivity
There was plenty of positivity regarding the team's prospects of breaking a 15-year drought for a series win in Australia prior to the first ball.
However, the situation is now looking at the possibility of extending their winless run in the country to 19 matches when the Boxing Day Test begins in Melbourne this week.
The England team - and their followers - will be keen to prevent a dreaded 5-0 scoreline.
It was mentioned that the "thrill and enjoyment" of head coach the positive style of play in the past couple of seasons had "renewed interest in" Test cricket for English supporters.
However, the group said they had low expectations for the final two games - and all they are requesting from the players is "a show of spirit".
"Commentators consistently points it out, but it all comes down to mental resilience. 'Bazball' has been turned into a buzzword now that is just, like, nonsense cricket," 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 batting lineup."
Looking Ahead
Asked whether he believed England will secure a victory in this contest, one fan responded: "It appears the Aussies are just too good right now."
"It will require more than one player that makes a significant contribution and turns the game."
Even with the series lost, the fans are anticipating the trip.
"It will be a wonderful trip nonetheless," added another sibling. "We must adopt that outlook."
"Obviously it is a let-down we don't have more to play for, but we have invested a significant amount by now."
"We'll enjoy having Christmas and New Year overseas. This will be mine and Rory's first time away from home over Christmas."
An educator, Katie is determined to make the most of the 21,000-mile round-trip as part of her Christmas holidays.
"If all else fails, there's always golf to turn to," she added.