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Golden sun, savory pies and iconic stadiums - what else would an supporter of the English team desire?

Ideally, they'd want an Ashes series in Australia where they remain in contention to win back the Ashes following the initial matches.

That will not be happening this time, though, after the hosts' dominant triumph in Adelaide put the hosts leading three-nil for the fourth successive Ashes series on their own soil.

The Barmy Army, the vocal contingent, have thousands of supporters making the journey for the final two Tests in Sydney and Melbourne.

Furthermore, other organized trips who will celebrate the holidays in Australia, as well as families and friends embarking on a dream holiday.

The Disappointed Travelers

The Ryding siblings are among those affected.

Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie had their flights and tickets arranged for the fourth and fifth Tests "a full year in advance", anticipating a historic English victory.

Instead, they have watched Australia defeat England convincingly in just 11 days from their house in their hometown.

"People in the office has been teasing me regarding the concluded contest for the last two weeks," commented one sibling.

"Our expectation had been that we would have something to play for still when we got there."

Fading Positivity

There was plenty of positivity concerning a potential victory of securing a first win in 15 years for a victory down under ahead of the tour.

However, the situation is now staring down the barrel of continuing a barren spell in the country to 19 matches when the Boxing Day Test begins in Melbourne on Thursday, 25 December.

The England team - and their supporters - will be desperate to avoid a whitewash.

Alex said 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 fourth and fifth Tests - and all they are hoping for from the players is "a bit of fight".

"Commentators consistently references this, but it all comes down to mental resilience. 'This style has been turned into a buzzword now that is just, like, unrealistic play," added Rory.

"Over the course of five days, you should hunker down. Wafting outside 'sixth stump' areas has not been part of the coaching manuals, and that is primarily due to the batting lineup."

Future Prospects

When questioned if he believed England will secure a victory in the current series, Sam said: "It appears the Aussies are just too good right now."

"It will require multiple performers that delivers for the team and makes a big impact."

Even with the series lost, the siblings are still looking forward to the trip.

"It will be a wonderful trip nonetheless," added another sibling. "We have to go with that attitude."

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

"We will make the most of having Christmas and New Year in Australia. It is also our first experience abroad over Christmas."

An educator, Katie is intent on maximizing the long-haul travel as part of her seasonal break.

"Should the cricket disappoint, I've got golf to fall back on," she added.