This January I had the absolute pleasure of visiting Morocco for the first time. It was an opportunity to check off a bucket-list country — and to do it with my favorite person.

Our journey began with a drive to New York City’s John F. Kennedy International Airport, where we checked in with Royal Air Maroc, the oneworld alliance airline that would take us to Casablanca that evening. Flying business class made the entire airport experience seamless and stress-free. From the moment we arrived we were personally escorted through the entire process — bypassing long lines at check-in, security and passport control. In no time we found ourselves in the business-class lounge, where we relaxed and grabbed a bite to eat before our flight.

When it was time to board, we were once again escorted directly to our gate, where we walked onto the plane and settled into our seats. The aircraft featured a 1-2-1 business-class configuration, and we sat in the center section — perfect for traveling together. The seats were wide and spacious, offering ample comfort. My 6-foot-2-inch boyfriend had plenty of room, even when the seat was in its fully lie-flat position, making it easy to stretch out and rest for the long-haul journey.

Shortly after take-off, meal service began. I opted for the tomato soup to start, followed by a grilled salmon entrée — both on par with other airlines’ long-haul food quality. The crew ensured we had everything we needed before dimming the cabin lights for the overnight flight. The sweet amenity kit featured local Aragon oil products, an eye mask, dental kit and ear plugs I used to get some rest before landing in Morocco.

We landed in Casablanca in the morning, feeling refreshed and ready for the adventure ahead. The airport was surprisingly easy to navigate, and we quickly found our driver waiting for us upon arrival.

Stay tuned for a full review of Royal Air Maroc’s business class in an upcoming issue of Global Traveler!

— Haley Fogarty, vice president of sales