'I'm getting constant stick' over the Ashes finishing prior to my arrival.
Beautiful weather, classic snacks and legendary venues - what more could an Three Lions follower possibly want?
Ideally, they'd want an Ashes series in Australia where they remain in contention to reclaim the urn after the first three Tests.
That will not be happening during this tour, after a comprehensive 82-run win in Adelaide gave Australia 3-0 up for the fourth consecutive series on home turf.
The Barmy Army, England's supporters' group, have a large group making the journey for the concluding fixtures in Sydney and Melbourne.
Furthermore, other organized trips who will spend the Christmas period overseas, as well as loved ones embarking on a dream holiday.
The Disappointed Travelers
The Ryding siblings are four such fans.
The group had their flights and tickets arranged for the fourth and fifth Tests "well ahead of time", dreaming of a rare England series success.
From afar, they've seen Australia dismantle the tourists in just a short period from their residence in the north of England.
"All my colleagues has been teasing me regarding the concluded contest for the last two weeks," commented one sibling.
"We always thought that we would have the series on the line upon our arrival."
Fading Positivity
There was plenty of positivity concerning a potential victory of securing a first win in 15 years for a triumph on Australian soil prior to the first ball.
Yet now they are looking at the possibility of continuing a barren spell in the country to 19 games when the next match starts in Melbourne this week.
The England team - and their fans - will be hoping to sidestep a dreaded 5-0 scoreline.
One sibling noted the "thrill and enjoyment" of head coach the positive style of play in recent years had "reinvigorated" the longest format for English supporters.
Yet the fans said they had minimal hopes for the final two games - and all they are hoping for from the players is "a show of spirit".
"Commentators consistently alludes to it, but it all comes down to mental resilience. 'The aggressive approach has been elevated to a term now that is just, like, unrealistic play," added Rory.
"Over the course of five days, you should hunker down. Playing at deliveries 'outside the line has never been in the fundamentals, and that is mainly the fault the batting lineup."
Looking Ahead
Asked whether he believed England will triumph in a Test in this contest, one fan responded: "The evidence suggests the hosts are a stronger side right now."
"Necessarily, there must be multiple performers that delivers for the team and produces a match-winning display."
Despite the scoreline, the fans are looking forward to the trip.
"It will be a great time regardless," commented Katie Ryding. "We have to go with that attitude."
"Obviously it is unfortunate we can't contest the series, but we have invested a significant amount as it is."
"We will make the most of having Christmas and New Year in Australia. It is also a new experience for us traveling over Christmas."
A teacher, Katie is determined to make the most of the 21,000-mile round-trip as part of her time off.
"If all else fails, I can play golf to rely on," Katie concluded.