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

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

This is not the case on this occasion, however, after Australia's crushing victory by 82 runs in Adelaide put the hosts leading three-nil for the fourth consecutive series on their own soil.

England's famous supporters' group, the vocal contingent, have a large group making the journey for the last two matches in New South Wales and Victoria.

There are also organized trips who will celebrate the holidays down under, as well as families and friends embarking on a special expedition.

The Disappointed Travelers

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

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.

From afar, they've seen Australia dismantle the tourists in just a short period from their family home in their hometown.

"All my colleagues has been making comments about it being over for the last two weeks," stated Sam Ryding.

"The hope was that we would have something to play for still when we got there."

Fading Positivity

Hope was abundant about England's chances of breaking a 15-year drought for a series win in Australia ahead of the tour.

Yet now they are looking at the possibility of prolonging a streak without victory in the country to 19 games when the Boxing Day Test begins in Melbourne on Thursday, 25 December.

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

Alex said the "entertainment" of head coach Brendon McCullum's 'Bazball' in the past couple of seasons had "renewed interest in" Test cricket for followers of the team.

Yet the fans said they had realistic outlooks for the fourth and fifth Tests - and all they are hoping for from the players is "a show of spirit".

"Every pundit points it out, but it all comes down to psychological strength. 'Bazball' has been become a phrase now that is just, like, unrealistic play," stated Rory Ryding.

"Over the course of five days, you should hunker down. Chasing balls 'wide of off stump has never featured in the fundamentals, and that is primarily due to the batting lineup."

The Remaining Matches

Asked whether he believed England will triumph in a Test in this Ashes series, one fan responded: "It looks like the hosts are a stronger side right now."

"It will require several individuals that delivers for the team and produces a match-winning display."

Regardless of the result, the group remains excited about the trip.

"We will have a fantastic experience anyway," said Katie. "Our approach is that mindset."

"Obviously it is unfortunate we can't contest the series, but we have invested a significant amount as it is."

"We will make the most of celebrating the holidays overseas. Additionally, it's mine and Rory's first time abroad at this time of year."

A schoolteacher, 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 turn to," she added.