'I'm getting constant stick' regarding the Ashes concluding ahead of my trip.
Beautiful weather, classic snacks and legendary venues - what else would an England cricket fan desire?
Realistically, they'd hope for an contest for the urn in Australia where they remain in contention to reclaim the urn once the opening games are done.
That will not be happening this time, though, after Australia's crushing 82-run win in Adelaide gave Australia leading three-nil for the fourth consecutive series on home turf.
The loyal traveling fans, the vocal contingent, have 3,000 fans making the journey for the concluding fixtures in the SCG and MCG.
In addition, there are tour groups who will be vacationing overseas, as well as relatives and companions embarking on a once-in-a-lifetime trip.
Fans with Booked Tickets
A group of four supporters are a prime example.
Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie had their itineraries and entry credentials secured for the fourth and fifth Tests "a full year in advance", anticipating a rare England series success.
From afar, they've seen Australia defeat England convincingly in just under two weeks from their house in the north of England.
"People in the office has been making comments that the series is done for the last two weeks," commented one sibling.
"We always thought that we would have a meaningful contest upon our arrival."
Fading Positivity
Optimism was high about England's chances of securing a first win in 15 years for a series win in Australia prior to the first ball.
However, the situation is now staring down the barrel of continuing a barren spell in the country to 19 matches when the next match starts in Melbourne this week.
Ben Stokes' side - and their supporters - will be hoping to sidestep a whitewash.
One sibling noted the "thrill and enjoyment" of head coach the positive style of play in recent years had "reinvigorated" the five-day game for English supporters.
But the Ryding siblings said they had realistic outlooks for the final two games - and all they are asking for from the players is "a bit of fight".
"Commentators consistently alludes to it, but it all is about fortitude. 'Bazball' has been become a phrase now that is just, like, impractical batting," commented another sibling.
"Over the course of five days, you should dig in. Chasing balls 'outside the line has never featured in the coaching manuals, and that is mainly the fault the top order."
Future Prospects
When questioned if he believed England will secure a victory in this contest, one fan responded: "It appears the Aussies are just too good currently."
"It will require several individuals that stands up for England and makes a big impact."
Even with the series lost, the siblings are still excited about the trip.
"We are going to have a great time nonetheless," said Katie. "We must adopt that attitude."
"Obviously it is unfortunate we aren't fighting for more, but we have spent so much money already."
"We'll enjoy celebrating the holidays out there. Additionally, it's a new experience for us abroad during the festive period."
An educator, Katie is determined to make the most of the 21,000-mile round-trip as part of her time off.
"Should the cricket disappoint, I can play golf to fall back on," Katie concluded.