Final impressions:
Thailand is a place we will come back to.
Especially northern Thailand. Chiang Mai was amazing. The nature and scenery around Chiang Mai makes it a perfect destination if you want to experience something authentic. It is not all about tourism.
And many of the tourists there are VERY aware of the environment. Not wanting to leave footprints.
We had a feeling that the people there really wanted to keep it real, and not succumb to mass tourism.