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Golden sun, savory pies and iconic stadiums - what more could an England cricket fan desire?

Well, perhaps an Ashes series in Australia where they retain a possibility to win back the Ashes following the initial matches.

Unfortunately, this scenario is off the table this time, though, after the hosts' dominant triumph in Adelaide put the hosts with a 3-0 lead for the fourth successive Ashes series on Australian grounds.

The Barmy Army, England's supporters' group, have a large group traveling for the final two Tests in the SCG and MCG.

In addition, there are travel parties who will be vacationing down under, as well as relatives and companions planning a special expedition.

The Ryding Siblings

Four fans named Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie are among those affected.

Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie had their itineraries and entry credentials arranged for the Melbourne and Sydney matches "a full year in advance", dreaming of a rare England series success.

From afar, they've seen Australia dismantle the tourists in just under two weeks from their residence in Penwortham, Lancashire.

"Everyone at work has been giving me grief that the series is done for the last two weeks," stated Sam Ryding.

"The hope was that we would have a meaningful contest by the time we arrived."

Fading Positivity

Optimism was high concerning a potential victory of breaking a 15-year drought for a victory down under before it began.

However, the situation is now facing the prospect of continuing a barren spell in the country to 19 games when the fourth Test gets under way in Melbourne this week.

The England team - and their supporters - will be keen to prevent a dreaded 5-0 scoreline.

One sibling noted the "excitement and fun" of head coach Brendon McCullum's 'Bazball' in the past couple of seasons had "brought fresh energy to" Test cricket for followers of the team.

However, the group said they had realistic outlooks for the remaining matches - and all they are asking for from the players is "some resilience".

"Every pundit references this, but it all comes down to psychological strength. 'The aggressive approach has been become a phrase now that is just, like, impractical batting," added Rory.

"Over the course of five days, you should apply yourself. Wafting outside 'sixth stump' areas has never featured in the textbooks, and that is largely because of the top order."

The Remaining Matches

Asked whether he believed England will win a match in this Ashes series, one fan responded: "It looks like the Aussies are just too good currently."

"Necessarily, there must be several individuals that makes a significant contribution and makes a big impact."

Even with the series lost, the fans are excited about the trip.

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

"Obviously it is disappointing we don't have more to play for, but we have invested a significant amount as it is."

"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 teacher, Katie is focused on enjoying the 21,000-mile round-trip as part of her Christmas holidays.

"If all else fails, I've got golf to fall back on," Katie concluded.