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

Realistically, they'd hope for an contest for the urn in Australia where they retain a possibility to secure the famous trophy once the opening games are done.

Unfortunately, this scenario is off the table on this occasion, however, after Australia's crushing 82-run win in Adelaide left the home side with a 3-0 lead for the fourth successive Ashes series on their own soil.

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

Furthermore, other tour groups who will spend the Christmas period down under, as well as loved ones heading for a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

The Disappointed Travelers

A group of four supporters are among those affected.

Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie had their travel arrangements and match passes arranged for the Melbourne and Sydney matches "a full year in advance", dreaming of a rare England series success.

Instead, they have watched Australia defeat England convincingly in just a short period from their family home in their hometown.

"People in the office has been teasing me that the series is done for the last two weeks," stated Sam Ryding.

"Our expectation had been that we would have a meaningful contest still when we got there."

Lowered Expectations

Optimism was high concerning a potential victory of breaking a 15-year drought for a victory down under ahead of the tour.

However, the situation is now staring down the barrel of continuing a barren spell in the country to 19 games when the Boxing Day Test begins in Melbourne this week.

The tourists - and their followers - will be keen to prevent a clean sweep.

It was mentioned that the "excitement and fun" of head coach the aggressive 'Bazball' approach in the past couple of seasons had "reinvigorated" Test cricket for followers of the team.

But the Ryding siblings said they had realistic outlooks for the fourth and fifth Tests - and all they are asking for from the players is "some resilience".

"Every pundit points it out, but it all is about fortitude. 'This style has been turned into a buzzword now that is just, like, impractical batting," commented another sibling.

"In a five-day Test match, you should apply yourself. Chasing balls 'outside the line has never featured in the coaching manuals, and that is primarily due to the frontline batsmen."

The Remaining Matches

When questioned if he believed England will secure a victory in this Ashes series, one fan responded: "It appears the Australians are superior right now."

"It will require multiple performers that stands up for England and turns the game."

Regardless of the result, the fans are anticipating the trip.

"It will be a wonderful trip regardless," said Katie. "Our approach is that attitude."

"Obviously it is disappointing we can't contest the series, but we have made a substantial financial commitment already."

"We'll enjoy spending the festive season overseas. Additionally, it's mine and Rory's first time away from home during the festive period."

A schoolteacher, Katie is intent on maximizing the 21,000-mile round-trip as part of her time off.

"If all else fails, I can play golf to fall back on," she added.