In a few days time Gov. LePage is leading a trade mission to Iceland and the UK. These junkets are fascinating affairs. I have been involved in the both organizing and even fringe participation.

For the most part these trips don’t result in much on the actual trip. They are usually useful for photo ops to finalize the deal or for a way to meet contacts to pursue later. Of course, some of the participants just use it as an excuse to explore a new city they would not normally have visited. In many cases trade trips get access to things normal tourists don’t normally get to see and witness. That is one of the perks of these sorts of trips.

The trade missions I helped on logistics with had some characters along. It always amusing to see how they react to being a strange city. Some mortify the organizers and hosts with their behaviour, while others are just keen to take in everything they can.

Needless to say the nightlife in London has more temptations than say the capital of Iceland ( and is probably far cheaper). But I am sure their minders will be keeping a close eye on the participants just the same. You never know when someone unexpected will go off the rails with no warning.

One tip, do not try and keep up with the Icelanders with their drink, they are Vikings after all.

Needless to say anyone involved in the organization of these trips will always have tales to tell ranging from the pathetic to the highly amusing.

I am sure I will hear if anything odd happens while the Mainers are in London.

I wish the participants in the latest jaunt across the pond all the best in their endeavours. Hopefully it will be fruitful outing and show all the best that is Maine.

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Andrew Ian Dodge is an author and former libertarian candidate for office. He lives in Harpswell.