'I'm getting constant stick' about the series finishing ahead of my trip.
Beautiful weather, classic snacks and legendary venues - what more could an England cricket fan ask for?
Well, perhaps an Ashes series in Australia where they remain in contention to win back the Ashes once the opening games are done.
That will not be happening on this occasion, however, after a comprehensive triumph in Adelaide put the hosts with a 3-0 lead for the fourth straight contest on Australian grounds.
The loyal traveling fans, the organized fan base, have thousands of supporters traveling for the concluding fixtures in New South Wales and Victoria.
Furthermore, other organized trips who will celebrate the holidays overseas, as well as relatives and companions heading for a special expedition.
Fans with Booked Tickets
A group of four supporters are four such fans.
Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie had their travel arrangements and match passes arranged for the Melbourne and Sydney matches "well ahead of time", hoping to witness a rare England series success.
Instead, they have watched Australia defeat England convincingly in just under two weeks from their residence in the north of England.
"People in the office has been giving me grief about it being over for the last two weeks," said Sam.
"The hope was that we would have something to play for by the time we arrived."
Fading Positivity
Optimism was high regarding the team's prospects of breaking a 15-year drought for a triumph on Australian soil prior to the first ball.
However, the situation is now looking at the possibility of extending their winless run in the country to 19 consecutive Tests when the Boxing Day Test begins in the MCG on Christmas Day.
The England team - and their supporters - will be hoping to sidestep a dreaded 5-0 scoreline.
It was mentioned that the "thrill and enjoyment" of head coach Brendon McCullum's 'Bazball' in the past couple of seasons had "renewed interest in" the five-day game for England fans.
But the Ryding siblings said they had realistic outlooks for the final two games - and all they are asking for from the players is "a bit of fight".
"All analysts alludes to it, but it all comes down to mental resilience. 'This style has been turned into a buzzword now that is just, like, unrealistic play," commented another sibling.
"Over the course of five days, you should apply yourself. Playing at deliveries 'outside the line has not been part of the coaching manuals, and that is mainly the fault the frontline batsmen."
Looking Ahead
Prompted about he believed England will triumph in a Test in this Ashes series, Sam said: "The evidence suggests the hosts are a stronger side right now."
"There is going to have to be several individuals that makes a significant contribution and turns the game."
Despite the scoreline, the group remains excited about the trip.
"We are going to have a great time anyway," added another sibling. "We must adopt that mindset."
"Of course, it's unfortunate we don't have more to play for, but we have invested a significant amount already."
"We plan to savor spending the festive season in Australia. It is also mine and Rory's first time traveling at this time of year."
A schoolteacher, Katie is intent on maximizing the long-haul travel as part of her time off.
"If all else fails, there's always golf to rely on," Katie concluded.