What does this ‘sittings’ mean?

Some XYZ director goes to Mauritius for locations scouting, some ABC goes to Bangkok for Story sittings. Where do these end? And how they are useful? are the million dollar question usually run in the minds of audience. And later when the movie releases, it will be obvious in most occasions that the money spent in these sittings will not be visible on screen. What do they do there then? Do foreign countries inspire writer in you?

As go some rumours, are they just booze or sleep with women all day there ? Is this a way of drawing the extra bucks from a producer? There are many questions but very little answers. Let us know what you think in the comments below?