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Sunshine, meat pies and world-famous cricket grounds - what more could an Three Lions follower desire?

Well, perhaps an Ashes series in Australia where they still have a chance to reclaim the urn once the opening games are done.

This is not the case this time, though, after Australia's crushing 82-run win in Adelaide left the home side leading three-nil for the fourth straight contest on Australian grounds.

The loyal traveling fans, England's supporters' group, have 3,000 fans flying out for the concluding fixtures in the SCG and MCG.

In addition, there are tour groups who will be vacationing in Australia, as well as families and friends embarking on a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

The Disappointed Travelers

Four fans named Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie are a prime example.

Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie had their flights and tickets booked for the Boxing Day and New Year Tests "a full year in advance", dreaming of a long-awaited triumph.

Instead, they have watched Australia dismantle the tourists in just under two weeks from their house in their hometown.

"All my colleagues 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 something to play for still when we got there."

Lowered Expectations

Optimism was high regarding the team's prospects of securing a first win in 15 years for a victory down under prior to the first ball.

Yet now they are looking at the possibility of prolonging a streak without victory in the country to 19 matches when the fourth Test gets under way in Melbourne this week.

Ben Stokes' side - and their supporters - will be desperate to avoid a clean sweep.

It was mentioned that the "excitement and fun" of head coach the positive style of play in recent years had "reinvigorated" the five-day game for followers of the team.

But the Ryding siblings said they had realistic outlooks for the remaining matches - and all they are requesting from the players is "a show of spirit".

"Commentators consistently references this, but it all hinges on psychological strength. 'Bazball' has been become a phrase now that is just, like, nonsense cricket," added Rory.

"During a long match, you should hunker down. Chasing balls 'wide of off stump has not been part of the coaching manuals, and that is mainly the fault the frontline batsmen."

The Remaining Matches

When questioned if he believed England will win a match in this contest, one fan responded: "It looks like the hosts are a stronger side right now."

"It will require more than one player that delivers for the team and makes a big impact."

Even with the series lost, the fans are looking forward to the trip.

"It will be a fantastic experience anyway," said Katie. "We have to go with that outlook."

"Of course, it's unfortunate we don't have more to play for, but we have invested a significant amount by now."

"We'll enjoy having Christmas and New Year in Australia. It is also our first experience abroad at this time of year."

A teacher, Katie is determined to make the most of the lengthy journey as part of her time off.

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