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

Realistically, they'd hope for an Ashes series in Australia where they retain a possibility to reclaim the urn after the first three Tests.

This is not the case 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.

England's famous supporters' group, the vocal contingent, have 3,000 fans traveling for the last two matches in the SCG and MCG.

In addition, there are travel parties who will spend the Christmas period in Australia, as well as families and friends planning a dream holiday.

The Disappointed Travelers

A group of four supporters are a prime example.

Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie had their travel arrangements and match passes secured for the Melbourne and Sydney matches "a full year in advance", hoping to witness a rare England series success.

From afar, they've seen Australia outplay the visitors in just a short period from their house in their hometown.

"All my colleagues has been making comments that the series is done for the last two weeks," commented one sibling.

"Our expectation had been that we would have a meaningful contest upon our arrival."

Diminishing Hope

Optimism was high concerning a potential victory of ending their 15-year wait for a triumph on Australian soil ahead of the tour.

Yet now they are looking at the possibility of continuing a barren spell in the country to 19 matches when the next match starts in Melbourne on Thursday, 25 December.

The tourists - and their followers - will be keen to prevent a whitewash.

Alex said the "excitement and fun" of head coach Brendon McCullum's 'Bazball' in recent years had "renewed interest in" Test cricket for English supporters.

But the Ryding siblings said they had minimal hopes for the fourth and fifth Tests - and all they are hoping for from the players is "a bit of fight".

"Commentators consistently points it out, but it all hinges on mental resilience. 'Bazball' has been become a phrase now that is just, like, nonsense cricket," added Rory.

"In a five-day Test match, you should hunker down. Wafting outside 'sixth stump' areas has never featured in the coaching manuals, and that is largely because of the frontline batsmen."

The Remaining Matches

Asked whether he believed England will secure a victory in the current series, came the reply: "It appears the Australians are superior at the moment."

"Necessarily, there must be several individuals that delivers for the team and makes a big impact."

Even with the series lost, the fans are anticipating the trip.

"We are going to have a fantastic experience regardless," said Katie. "We have to go with that attitude."

"Of course, it's unfortunate we don't have more to play for, but we have invested a significant amount as it is."

"We will make the most of celebrating the holidays in Australia. This will be our first experience traveling at this time of year."

A schoolteacher, Katie is focused on enjoying the long-haul travel as part of her time off.

"Should the cricket disappoint, I can play golf to fall back on," Katie concluded.