I'm not sure this trip is much of a joy ride. This sort of trip is usually quite demanding.
While on the face of it it might seem to be a trip for the lads, I think very useful information is gained from these sorts of trips and valuable contacts made. Much more so than if they were to use teleconferencing etc.
Our pilot representatives need to be abreast of what's going on elsewhere. Personally I think it's money well spent.