It’s getting cooler here in Louisiana, but Governor John Bel Edwards has decided to skip out on the cool snap. He’s taking a trip to Cuba and he’s bringing some others with him.

From WAFB:

Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards headed to Cuba, but it’s not for those white sand beaches and legendary cigars.

The governor is on a trade mission in hopes of boosting economic ties with the country.

President Barack Obama helped to reopen US-Cuban relations earlier this year. Now, a team of state and business officials is looking to rebuild what once was one of Louisiana’s top trading partners.

The group was supposed to leave early Monday, but the flight was delayed by mechanical issues with the plane. They had to wait at the airport for a new plane.

JBE isn’t the only one on this trip. Agriculture Commissioner Mike Strain and the heads of Economic Development and DOTD are also coming along.

Louisiana farmers in particular are hoping to increase their exports to Cuba. Supposedly, Cubans like Louisiana rice.