'I'm getting constant stick' over the Ashes finishing prior to my arrival.
Beautiful weather, classic snacks and legendary venues - what else would an supporter of the English team possibly want?
Well, perhaps an Ashes series in Australia where they still have a chance to reclaim the urn after the first three Tests.
Unfortunately, this scenario is off the table this time, though, after Australia's crushing victory by 82 runs in Adelaide put the hosts with a 3-0 lead for the fourth straight contest on Australian grounds.
England's famous supporters' group, the organized fan base, have thousands of supporters flying out for the last two matches in New South Wales and Victoria.
There are also tour groups who will spend the Christmas period down under, as well as loved ones planning a dream holiday.
The Ryding Siblings
A group of four supporters are four such fans.
Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie had their itineraries and entry credentials booked for the Boxing Day and New Year Tests "12 months ago", dreaming of a historic English victory.
From afar, they've seen Australia dismantle the tourists in just 11 days from their residence in Penwortham, Lancashire.
"All my colleagues has been teasing me regarding the concluded contest for the last two weeks," commented one sibling.
"Our expectation had been that we would have a meaningful contest still when we got there."
Lowered Expectations
Hope was abundant about England's chances of breaking a 15-year drought for a victory down under prior to the first ball.
Yet now they are staring down the barrel of extending their winless run in the country to 19 games when the Boxing Day Test begins in the MCG on Christmas Day.
Ben Stokes' side - and their fans - will be desperate to avoid a dreaded 5-0 scoreline.
Alex said the "thrill and enjoyment" of head coach Brendon McCullum's 'Bazball' in the past couple of seasons had "brought fresh energy to" the five-day game for English supporters.
However, the group said they had minimal hopes for the fourth and fifth Tests - and all they are hoping for from the players is "a bit of fight".
"Commentators consistently points it out, but it all is about mental resilience. 'The aggressive approach has been elevated to a term now that is just, like, impractical batting," commented another sibling.
"During a long match, you should apply yourself. Playing at deliveries 'outside the line has never featured in the fundamentals, and that is primarily due to the top order."
The Remaining Matches
When questioned if he believed England will triumph in a Test in this contest, one fan responded: "It looks like the Australians are superior currently."
"There is going to have to be several individuals that stands up for England and makes a big impact."
Regardless of the result, the siblings are still looking forward to the trip.
"We are going to have a wonderful trip regardless," said Katie. "We must adopt that mindset."
"Obviously it is disappointing we can't contest the series, but we have invested a significant amount as it is."
"We plan to savor having Christmas and New Year out there. Additionally, it's our first experience away from home during the festive period."
A schoolteacher, Katie is determined to make the most of the long-haul travel as part of her seasonal break.
"As a backup plan, I've got golf to rely on," she added.