'I'm getting constant stick' about the Ashes finishing ahead of my trip.
Beautiful weather, classic snacks and legendary venues - what else would an England cricket fan ask for?
Well, perhaps an contest for the urn in Australia where they still have a chance to secure the famous trophy once the opening games are done.
This is not the case on this occasion, however, after Australia's crushing 82-run win in Adelaide put the hosts 3-0 up for the fourth consecutive series on Australian grounds.
The Barmy Army, the vocal contingent, have 3,000 fans making the journey for the last two matches in New South Wales and Victoria.
There are also tour groups who will celebrate the holidays overseas, as well as relatives and companions heading for a dream holiday.
The Ryding Siblings
Four fans named Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie are a prime example.
The four siblings had their flights and tickets secured for the fourth and fifth Tests "well ahead of time", dreaming of a rare England series success.
From afar, they've seen Australia outplay the visitors in just 11 days from their family home in their hometown.
"Everyone at work has been teasing me regarding the concluded contest for the last two weeks," said Sam.
"We always thought that we would have a meaningful contest by the time we arrived."
Diminishing Hope
Hope was abundant about England's chances of securing a first win in 15 years for a series win in Australia prior to the first ball.
But they are now looking at the possibility of prolonging a streak without victory in the country to 19 consecutive Tests when the next match starts in the MCG on Christmas Day.
The tourists - and their fans - will be keen to prevent a clean sweep.
One sibling noted the "excitement and fun" of head coach the positive style of play in the past couple of seasons had "renewed interest in" the longest format for England fans.
However, the group said they had realistic outlooks for the remaining matches - and all they are requesting from the players is "some resilience".
"All analysts points it out, but it all comes down to psychological strength. 'The aggressive approach has been become a phrase now that is just, like, nonsense cricket," stated Rory Ryding.
"During a long match, you should apply yourself. Chasing balls 'sixth stump' areas has never been in the coaching manuals, and that is primarily due to the batting lineup."
Looking Ahead
Prompted about he believed England will win a match in the current series, one fan responded: "The evidence suggests the Australians are superior at the moment."
"Necessarily, there must be more than one player that delivers for the team and produces a match-winning display."
Regardless of the result, the fans are anticipating the trip.
"We are going to have a fantastic experience nonetheless," added another sibling. "We have to go with that attitude."
"Of course, it's unfortunate we can't contest the series, but we have spent so much money as it is."
"We'll enjoy celebrating the holidays out there. This will be our first experience away from home over Christmas."
A schoolteacher, Katie is focused on enjoying the long-haul travel as part of her Christmas holidays.
"As a backup plan, I can play golf to fall back on," Katie concluded.