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Beautiful weather, classic snacks and legendary venues - what else would an supporter of the English team desire?

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

That will not be happening on this occasion, however, after the hosts' dominant victory by 82 runs in Adelaide gave Australia leading three-nil for the fourth straight contest on Australian grounds.

The loyal traveling fans, the organized fan base, have 3,000 fans traveling for the last two matches in Sydney and Melbourne.

There are also organized trips who will celebrate the holidays in Australia, as well as families and friends planning a special expedition.

The Disappointed Travelers

A group of four supporters are a prime example.

The four siblings had their flights and tickets arranged for the Boxing Day and New Year Tests "well ahead of time", dreaming of a historic English victory.

From afar, they've seen Australia defeat England convincingly in just under two weeks from their residence in their hometown.

"Everyone at work has been making comments regarding the concluded contest for the last two weeks," stated Sam Ryding.

"The hope was that we would have the series on the line upon our arrival."

Lowered Expectations

Optimism was high about England's chances of breaking a 15-year drought for a series win in Australia ahead of the tour.

But they are now staring down the barrel of extending their winless run in the country to 19 matches when the fourth Test gets under way in Melbourne on Thursday, 25 December.

The England team - and their fans - will be desperate to avoid a clean sweep.

Alex said the "excitement and fun" of head coach the positive style of play in the past couple of seasons had "renewed interest in" the five-day game for followers of the team.

But the Ryding siblings said they had low expectations for the final two games - and all they are asking for from the players is "a show of spirit".

"Every pundit references this, but it all hinges on fortitude. 'This style has been turned into a buzzword now that is just, like, nonsense cricket," added Rory.

"In a five-day Test match, you should apply yourself. Wafting outside 'outside the line has never been in the textbooks, and that is primarily due to the top order."

Future Prospects

Asked whether he believed England will secure a victory in this Ashes series, Sam said: "The evidence suggests the Aussies are just too good currently."

"There is going to have to be several individuals that makes a significant contribution and makes a big impact."

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

"We will have a fantastic experience regardless," added another sibling. "We have to go with that mindset."

"Of course, it's disappointing we don't have more to play for, but we have spent so much money by now."

"We plan to savor spending the festive season overseas. It is also a new experience for us abroad during the festive period."

A teacher, Katie is determined to make the most of the lengthy journey as part of her seasonal break.

"Should the cricket disappoint, I've got golf to turn to," she finished.