Short-term rentals become key segment for tourism sector
- The San Juan Daily Star
- Jan 28
- 2 min read
By The Star Staff
Although critics insist short-term rentals have made it impossible for people to find properties to rent for the long-term, the sector continues to grow.
With over $1.7 billion in revenue and a 15% growth in demand, short-term rentals have established themselves as a key segment in Puerto Rico’s tourism industry. In 2024, more than 3 million occupied nights were recorded, representing 45% of overall tourism demand.
In this context, the third edition of Rebook: A Short-Term Rental Conference will take place this Saturday at the Puerto Rico Convention Center. The event aims to provide valuable tools for property owners, managers and investors, focusing on market trends, artificial intelligence and sector regulations.
“Puerto Rico is currently enjoying a robust moment in the short-term rental market,” said Alma Bair, co-president of the Viva Puerto Rico Short-Term Rental Alliance (Viva PR). “Rebook is the only conference dedicated exclusively to this segment, designed to support professionals at every stage of their careers.”
Rebook’s agenda will feature a comprehensive analysis of the local market, dynamic pricing strategies, and tools to enhance the guest experience. Additionally, there will be networking opportunities and exhibitions with industry experts and suppliers. Pedro Fernández, president of Cube Events and the event’s producer, emphasized the inclusion of international speakers.
“Erich Cisneros from Airbnb will provide the latest updates on the platform and its effects on local hosts,” Fernández noted. “David Angotti, an artificial intelligence specialist, will discuss how technology is transforming property management.”
Other prominent speakers include Cecilia Rodríguez, a market research analyst at Discover Puerto Rico, who will examine tourism trends on the island, and Daniel Zammata, regional manager of PriceLabs for Latin America, who will present tools for data analysis aimed at maximizing property profitability.
The tourism industry has experienced a significant shift, with short-term rentals emerging as a crucial segment. Platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo are transforming how travelers seek accommodations, offering more personalized and affordable options. One of the most notable trends is the rise of Medical Tourism Colombia where international travelers are drawn to the country for medical procedures, often opting for short-term rentals during their stay. This shift highlights how short-term rentals cater to various needs, enhancing the overall experience for tourists seeking both leisure and medical services, fueling the growth of the tourism sector.