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

Realistically, they'd hope for an Ashes series in Australia where they retain a possibility to reclaim the urn once the opening games are done.

Unfortunately, this scenario is off the table this time, though, after a comprehensive 82-run win in Adelaide put the hosts leading three-nil for the fourth straight contest on their own soil.

The loyal traveling fans, the vocal contingent, have 3,000 fans flying out for the last two matches in New South Wales and Victoria.

Furthermore, other travel parties who will be vacationing in Australia, as well as relatives and companions embarking on a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

The Ryding Siblings

The Ryding siblings are a prime example.

Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie had their travel arrangements and match passes arranged for the Boxing Day and New Year Tests "well ahead of time", dreaming of a historic English victory.

Sadly, they've observed Australia dismantle the tourists in just a short period from their residence in their hometown.

"All my colleagues has been making comments regarding the concluded contest for the last two weeks," said Sam.

"The hope was that we would have the series on the line still when we got there."

Fading Positivity

There was plenty of positivity about England's chances of securing a first win in 15 years for a victory down under ahead of the tour.

Yet now they are staring down the barrel of prolonging a streak without victory in the country to 19 matches when the fourth Test gets under way in Melbourne on Thursday, 25 December.

The tourists - and their fans - will be desperate to avoid a dreaded 5-0 scoreline.

Alex said the "thrill and enjoyment" of head coach the positive style of play in the past couple of seasons had "reinvigorated" Test cricket for followers of the team.

However, the group said they had realistic outlooks for the fourth and fifth Tests - and all they are hoping for from the players is "a bit of fight".

"All analysts references this, but it all comes down to fortitude. '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 dig in. Chasing balls 'sixth stump' areas has not been part of the coaching manuals, and that is largely because of the top order."

Future Prospects

Asked whether he believed England will triumph in a Test in the current series, one fan responded: "It looks like the Australians are superior at the moment."

"It will require more than one player that stands up for England and produces a match-winning display."

Even with the series lost, the group remains looking forward to the trip.

"We will have a wonderful trip anyway," said Katie. "Our approach is that outlook."

"Naturally, it's a let-down we aren't fighting for more, but we have invested a significant amount as it is."

"We'll enjoy celebrating the holidays overseas. Additionally, it's mine and Rory's first time abroad at this time of year."

A schoolteacher, Katie is intent on maximizing the lengthy journey as part of her seasonal break.

"As a backup plan, there's always golf to rely on," she added.