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

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

Unfortunately, this scenario is off the table on this occasion, however, after a comprehensive triumph in Adelaide put the hosts with a 3-0 lead for the fourth consecutive series on Australian grounds.

The Barmy Army, the organized fan base, have 3,000 fans making the journey for the final two Tests in New South Wales and Victoria.

There are also travel parties who will spend the Christmas period overseas, as well as relatives and companions embarking on a special expedition.

The Disappointed Travelers

Four fans named Alex, Sam, Rory and Katie are four such fans.

The four siblings had their itineraries and entry credentials booked for the Boxing Day and New Year Tests "12 months ago", dreaming of a rare England series success.

From afar, they've seen Australia outplay the visitors in just 11 days from their family home in Penwortham, Lancashire.

"Everyone at work has been making comments about it being over for the last two weeks," stated Sam Ryding.

"We always thought that we would have the series on the line by the time we arrived."

Diminishing Hope

There was plenty of positivity about England's chances of securing a first win in 15 years for a victory down under prior to the first ball.

But they are now staring down the barrel of continuing a barren spell in the country to 19 matches when the fourth Test gets under way in the MCG on Christmas Day.

Ben Stokes' side - and their fans - will be hoping to sidestep a clean sweep.

Alex said the "entertainment" of head coach the aggressive 'Bazball' approach in recent years had "renewed interest in" the longest format for England fans.

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

"Every pundit points it out, but it all is about mental resilience. 'This style has been elevated to a term now that is just, like, nonsense cricket," added Rory.

"During a long match, you should hunker down. Chasing balls 'outside the line has never been in the fundamentals, and that is largely because of the batting lineup."

The Remaining Matches

Prompted about he believed England will triumph in a Test in this Ashes series, came the reply: "It appears the hosts are a stronger side right now."

"There is going to have to be several individuals that makes a significant contribution and makes a big impact."

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

"We will have a great time regardless," said Katie. "We have to go with that mindset."

"Of course, it's disappointing we don't have more to play for, but we have spent so much money by now."

"We plan to savor spending the festive season in Australia. It is also a new experience for us abroad during the festive period."

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

"As a backup plan, there's always golf to turn to," she added.