Graham Grant, Six Senses resorts

Originally from the Gold Coast, Thailand is now Graham Grant’s second home. As the regional general manager of the luxury group Six Senses in Southeast Asia, Grant is based in Phang Nga and frequently travels between the islands of the Andaman Sea, sixsenses.com

Look

Wat Tham Suea, located just 3 km from Krabi town, is one of the holiest temples in Thailand (free entry for those who watch baht). The site is a meditation center of historical and archaeological significance. There seem to be tiger paw prints on the stones in the cave, and molds for making Buddha’s footprints were also found when they were unearthed. Of course, this temple is perhaps the most famous (or notorious) because you need to climb 1,260 steps to see the star of the show – a huge gilded Buddha statue. But trust me, the steep journey is worth it for some spiritual and always breathtaking experience with 360-degree views of the local countryside and Andaman Sea.

Do

For the real beauty of Krabi, head to the peaceful fishing village of Ao Thalene for a leisurely kayak tour and visit Krabi’s mangrove habitat, a hidden gem. Kayaking and gliding through the numerous waterways along spectacular limestone cliffs is the perfect way to explore this vast mangrove forest – with minimal impact on the local ecosystem. It is also an opportunity to observe monkeys, birds and other wildlife up close.

eat

Hyperlocal Honey Chicken is a beach restaurant in nearby Pasay Beach, Koh Yao Noi. Chicken is grilled on a makeshift charcoal grill and served with sticky rice and sweet chilli. Pull up a bench, put your feet on the sand, and enjoy delicious food and priceless views.

drink

Instead of going to the bars of Krabi’s tourist area, enjoy your own drinks around the limestone karsts of Phang Nga Bay on a sunset cruise, a short excursion by speedboat from Krabi (and home to the legendary James Bond Island). My first choice on land is The Last Fisherman Bar in Krabi, facebook.com/thelastfisherman/

avoid

People in Krabi are always warm and friendly, but make sure to keep your distance and respect their space. Unlike the Australian handshake and cheek kiss, the kingdom’s traditional greeting is a gesture known as a “wait”, which, in addition to respect, senses and acknowledges cultural connection. You don’t need to walk around and say hello to everyone you see, but travelers should return the favor when they encounter it. Just put your hands together and bow your head and say hello in Thai – sawasdee.

Flourish

Nothing keeps you hydrated and healthy like fresh coconut water. It’s full of electrolytes and is the ultimate thirst quencher. Always drink straight from the ice (or from the sky) and be sure to scoop out the pulp and enjoy. This is a game changer! It’s sold curbside year round and I always like one when I go to the market to cool off.