At Riad Tizwa, we are thrilled to welcome an increasing number of guests arriving from North America, thanks to exciting new flight connections — and even more on the horizon. These routes make your journey not just easier, but part of the adventure.

Marrakech has recently strengthened its ties with the U.S. and Canada. Delta Air Lines launched its very first direct flight from Atlanta (ATL) to Marrakech-Menara Airport (RAK), meanwhile, United Airlines has a New York/Newark to Marrakech flight four times per week. Air Canada is flying in to Marrakech direct from Montreal. AND, Royal Air Maroc recently announced its Los Angeles to Casa flight which will be a game changer for West coast visitors. 

These expansions come on the heels of a strong 7% growth in North American tourism.

Embracing Moroccan Culture: Tips for North American Travelers Visiting Morocco, especially vibrant Marrakech, is unlike traveling anywhere in the United States or Canada. Here are some helpful hints to make your stay smooth, respectful, and deeply rewarding:

Let’s get the obvious out of the way. YES its safe and lets be blunt here it is WAY more safe than the USA or even London, Rome or Paris.

1. Dress & Etiquette

Morocco is a predominantly Muslim country, and while Marrakech is cosmopolitan, respect of culture goes a long way. Many locals appreciate visitors dressing more conservatively than they might back home: think light, loose clothing covering shoulders and knees. Also, learning a few words in Darija (Moroccan Arabic) is a beautiful way to and connect — locals often appreciate the effort.

2. Haggling is Normal

In the souks (markets), haggling is part of the rhythm of daily life. Unlike fixed-price shopping in many U.S. stores, bargaining here is expected — but polite negotiation is key. Some travelers have shared advice: don’t accept an initial offer, but also avoid pushing so hard that it feels disrespectful. And keep in mind that a starting wage in Morocco is around $10-$15 a day.

3. Be Street-Smart, But Open-Hearted

Marrakech, like any city, has its energetic areas. Pay attention when navigating crowded souks or taking taxis — a few seasoned travelers suggest requesting the meter (“le compteur”) to avoid overpaying. At the same time, don’t shy away from friendly interactions: Moroccans are deeply generous and eager to help, as long as you approach with respect and meet them with the same warmth and smile.

4. Mind the Heat & Amenities

Some visitors new to Morocco mention that air conditioning is less common than in U.S. hotels. Be prepared, especially if visiting in summer: dress for the warmth, stay hydrated, and don’t expect the same climate control you’re used to back home. Also, ice making machines are a USA thing…

For travelers from North America, Marrakech might feel at once familiar and entirely new. Unlike the fast pace, hyper-individualism, and standardized comforts of U.S. cities, Marrakech invites you into a world of sensory richness, layered traditions, and communal warmth. Here, you learn not just to see — but to slow down, absorb, and connect.

With the new direct flights making this journey more accessible than ever, there’s never been a better time to experience Marrakech and Fes. At Riad Tizwa, we look forward to welcoming you into our home, and helping you discover not just the beauty of our city — but the deeper rhythms of Moroccan life.

MUST See Treasures in Marrakech & Beyond:

Once you arrive, Riad Tizwa is your serene home base. From here, you can easily explore some of the most magical parts of Marrakech:

Jemaa el-Fnaa: This iconic square is the beating heart of the medina. By day, it’s full of orange-juice sellers and water-bearers; by night, the storytellers, snake charmers, and musicians come alive.

The Souks: Wandering the narrow, labyrinthine alleys feels like stepping into another world. You’ll find spices, textiles, leather goods, ceramics — and the joy of window-shopping, bargaining, and discovering hidden corners.

Historical Gems: Don’t miss the Bahia Palace, the Ben Youssef Madrasa, and the soothing sanctuary of the Majorelle Garden.

Cultural Immersion: Try to catch an evening of hikayat (traditional storytelling) in the square or a smaller courtyard café — these stories are part of Morocco’s living heritage, passed down through generations.

Day Trips: Consider excursions to the Atlas Mountains, the ancient imperial cities like Essaouira ( we have a Tizwa Beach Apartment there – So you can do an easy overnight or 2 day trip there) or a desert adventure for a breath of Morocco’s sweeping landscapes.

(History Bit:… ) 

The relationship between the United States and Morocco is one of the oldest and most enduring diplomatic friendships in American history, stretching back to the very birth of the United States itself.

In 1777, Morocco became the first country in the world to formally recognize the newly independent United States, opening its ports to American ships at a time when the young nation was seeking legitimacy and safe passage for its traders. This early gesture of goodwill was cemented by the Moroccan–American Treaty of Friendship, signed in 1786 and still in force today, making it the longest unbroken treaty in U.S. history. The treaty laid the foundations for cooperation in trade, navigation, and mutual protection, setting a tone of respect and partnership that has endured for more than two centuries.

Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, Morocco continued to play a strategic role in American foreign relations. During World War II, Morocco hosted the Casablanca Conference in 1943, where President Franklin D. Roosevelt and Prime Minister Winston Churchill met to plan the Allied strategy that would ultimately help shape the end of the war. Following Morocco’s independence in 1956, the United States was among the first nations to establish formal diplomatic relations with the modern Moroccan state.

Today, the connections between the USA and Morocco are broader and deeper than ever. The two countries enjoy strong trade ties, reinforced by a U.S.–Morocco Free Trade Agreement signed in 2004, and cooperate closely on security, education, and cultural exchange. Thousands of American students’ study in Morocco each year, while Moroccan culture—from cuisine and design to music and storytelling—continues to inspire Americans. Together, the USA and Morocco share a relationship rooted in history, strengthened by diplomacy, and animated by vibrant people-to-people connections in the modern world.