'I'm getting constant stick' about the Ashes being over prior to my arrival.

Beautiful weather, classic snacks and legendary venues - what more could an Three Lions follower ask for?

Well, perhaps an contest for the urn in Australia where they remain in contention to reclaim the urn following the initial matches.

That will not be happening during this tour, after a comprehensive triumph in Adelaide gave Australia with a 3-0 lead for the fourth consecutive series on home turf.

England's famous supporters' group, the vocal contingent, have 3,000 fans making the journey for the final two Tests in the SCG and MCG.

There are also travel parties who will be vacationing overseas, as well as relatives and companions embarking on a dream holiday.

Fans with Booked Tickets

A group of four supporters are a prime example.

The four siblings had their flights and tickets secured for the Melbourne and Sydney matches "well ahead of time", hoping to witness a historic English victory.

Sadly, they've observed Australia outplay the visitors in just 11 days from their family home in Penwortham, Lancashire.

"Everyone at work has been giving me grief regarding the concluded contest for the last two weeks," said Sam.

"We always thought that we would have a meaningful contest still when we got there."

Diminishing Hope

Optimism was high concerning a potential victory of breaking a 15-year drought for a series win in Australia before it began.

But they are now looking at the possibility of extending their winless run in the country to 19 games when the next match starts in Melbourne on Thursday, 25 December.

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

Alex said the "excitement and fun" of head coach Brendon McCullum's 'Bazball' in the past couple of seasons had "renewed interest in" the longest format for English supporters.

Yet the fans said they had realistic outlooks for the remaining matches - and all they are asking for from the players is "a bit of fight".

"All analysts points it out, but it all is about mental resilience. 'This style has been elevated to a term now that is just, like, impractical batting," stated Rory Ryding.

"In a five-day Test match, you should apply yourself. Chasing balls 'wide of off stump has never been in the coaching manuals, and that is primarily due to the batting lineup."

Looking Ahead

Asked whether he believed England will triumph in a Test in this Ashes series, came the reply: "It looks like the Aussies are just too good right now."

"There is going to have to be more than one player that stands up for England and turns the game."

Regardless of the result, the siblings are still anticipating the trip.

"It will be a fantastic experience nonetheless," added another sibling. "Our approach is that mindset."

"Of course, it's a let-down we can't contest the series, but we have invested a significant amount by now."

"We will make the most of celebrating the holidays in Australia. Additionally, it's a new experience for us abroad at this time of year."

An educator, Katie is intent on maximizing the 21,000-mile round-trip as part of her seasonal break.

"If all else fails, I've got golf to rely on," she added.