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

Well, perhaps an Ashes series in Australia where they remain in contention to reclaim the urn after the first three Tests.

Unfortunately, this scenario is off the table during this tour, after Australia's crushing 82-run win in Adelaide put the hosts leading three-nil for the fourth straight contest on home turf.

The loyal traveling fans, England's supporters' group, have a large group flying out for the final two Tests in New South Wales and Victoria.

Furthermore, other tour groups who will be vacationing in Australia, as well as families and friends heading for a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

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 secured for the fourth and fifth Tests "a full year in advance", hoping to witness a long-awaited triumph.

Sadly, they've observed Australia outplay the visitors in just under two weeks from their family home in their hometown.

"Everyone at work has been giving me grief about it being over for the last two weeks," said Sam.

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

Fading Positivity

There was plenty of positivity about England's chances of securing a first win in 15 years for a triumph on Australian soil prior to the first ball.

However, the situation is now staring down the barrel of continuing a barren spell in the country to 19 consecutive Tests when the fourth Test gets under way in Melbourne this week.

The England team - and their followers - will be keen to prevent a clean sweep.

It was mentioned that the "thrill and enjoyment" of head coach the positive style of play in the past couple of seasons had "reinvigorated" Test cricket for English supporters.

However, the group said they had minimal hopes for the remaining matches - and all they are requesting from the players is "a bit of fight".

"All analysts points it out, but it all is about mental resilience. 'The aggressive approach has been turned into a buzzword now that is just, like, nonsense cricket," stated Rory Ryding.

"In a five-day Test match, you should apply yourself. Playing at deliveries 'outside the line has never been in the fundamentals, and that is mainly the fault the batting lineup."

Looking Ahead

Asked whether he believed England will secure a victory in this Ashes series, one fan responded: "It appears the hosts are a stronger side at the moment."

"It will require more than one player that delivers for the team and produces a match-winning display."

Despite the scoreline, the fans are looking forward to the trip.

"It will be a great time anyway," said Katie. "We must adopt that outlook."

"Obviously it is disappointing we can't contest the series, but we have made a substantial financial commitment as it is."

"We will make the most of having Christmas and New Year overseas. Additionally, it's mine and Rory's first time traveling during the festive period."

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

"As a backup plan, I can play golf to turn to," she added.