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Golden sun, savory pies and iconic stadiums - what more could an England cricket fan ask for?

Well, perhaps an Ashes series in Australia where they still have a chance to reclaim the urn after the first three Tests.

Unfortunately, this scenario is off the table on this occasion, however, after the hosts' dominant 82-run win in Adelaide left the home side with a 3-0 lead for the fourth straight contest on their own soil.

The Barmy Army, the vocal contingent, have 3,000 fans making the journey for the concluding fixtures in the SCG and MCG.

There are also organized trips who will be vacationing down under, as well as loved ones heading for a dream holiday.

The Disappointed Travelers

The Ryding siblings are a prime example.

Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie had their flights and tickets booked for the Melbourne and Sydney matches "12 months ago", anticipating a long-awaited triumph.

From afar, they've seen Australia dismantle the tourists in just under two weeks from their residence in Penwortham, Lancashire.

"Everyone at work has been giving me grief regarding the concluded contest for the last two weeks," said Sam.

"Our expectation had been that we would have a meaningful contest still when we got there."

Diminishing Hope

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

However, the situation is now staring down the barrel of extending their winless run in the country to 19 consecutive Tests when the next match starts in Melbourne on Thursday, 25 December.

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

One sibling noted the "thrill and enjoyment" of head coach the aggressive 'Bazball' approach in recent years had "renewed interest in" the five-day game for England fans.

Yet the fans said they had low expectations for the fourth and fifth Tests - and all they are asking for from the players is "some resilience".

"All analysts points it out, but it all is about mental resilience. 'This style has been elevated to a term now that is just, like, unrealistic play," commented another sibling.

"Over the course of five days, you should hunker down. Wafting outside 'outside the line has not been part of the coaching manuals, and that is largely because of the frontline batsmen."

The Remaining Matches

Asked whether he believed England will win a match in the current series, came the reply: "The evidence suggests the Aussies are just too good currently."

"Necessarily, there must be more than one player that makes a significant contribution and turns the game."

Regardless of the result, the group remains excited about the trip.

"It will be a great time anyway," added another sibling. "Our approach is that outlook."

"Obviously it is disappointing we aren't fighting for more, but we have spent so much money as it is."

"We will make the most of celebrating the holidays in Australia. This will be our first experience abroad during the festive period."

A teacher, Katie is focused on enjoying the lengthy journey as part of her seasonal break.

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