When the dice shows two fives in a game of backgammon in a tiny Moroccan restaurant with hookah pipes in the window and red velvet pillows on the sofa, carefully cock your head to one side and move all your chips to the last square. Do not be afraid of offending your opponent by kicking his chip out of the board. Remember that this is a betting game and be grateful you did not make any large bets involving houses, or daughters.

When the bearded proprietor comes around, ask for another slice of meat pie and a piece of baklava. Refuse any dish suggestions involving grape leaves. Order tea, but make sure it is mint. Sweets with oddly familiar logos but arabic writing on the packaging should be left alone, no matter how much nostalgia they bring.