AI Agents, Climate Shifts, and the STR Opportunity in 2025

We dive into two timely innovations: how rural hotels are leveraging AI-powered WhatsApp agents, and why climate change is reshaping STR demand and operations.

Speakspots: Personalised Guest Service Through WhatsApp AI

At Phocuswright Europe, one of the most talked-about tech reveals was the launch of Speakspots’ white-label AI agent for independent and rural accommodations. Already powering over 50,000 users per month across 300 destinations in 68 countries, the platform is now expanding into B2B hospitality with a simple goal: make high-touch guest service accessible through WhatsApp—no app downloads required.

The AI agent can:

• Handle guest messaging and FAQs

• Make restaurant and activity bookings

• Place phone calls in the guest’s native language

• Deliver local recommendations instantly, all within WhatsApp

🤖 Why This Matters:

• WhatsApp is ubiquitous, especially in emerging markets

• Rural properties often lack front desk staff or concierge resources

• Speakspots allows these operators to scale guest experience without scaling headcount

Founder Andres Martinez Artal positions Speakspots not just as a chatbot—but as a bridge between operational efficiency and hospitality excellence.

🏡 STR Takeaway:

• You don’t need a 24/7 reception team to offer concierge-style support—AI can help

• Use guest-familiar platforms like WhatsApp to reduce friction

• Look into white-label tools that let you retain your brand while automating interactions

Climate Change and STRs: Pressure and Opportunity Collide

While tech is changing how we communicate with guests, climate change is altering where and why they travel. According to Hostaway CEO Marcus Räder, the STR sector is quietly emerging as a resilient alternative to traditional accommodation, especially during climate-driven disruptions.

Speaking on Skift’s climate podcast, Räder pointed to recent surges in STR demand caused by:

• Heatwaves pushing travellers toward cooler, rural properties

• Natural disasters displacing families and workers, creating short-term housing needs

• Insurance companies booking remote rentals for repair crews and claims staff

📈 A Climate-Driven Booking Spike?

STRs are becoming the go-to choice when:

• Flexibility is needed

• Hotels are overbooked or inaccessible

• Guests want space, self-sufficiency, and control

But the opportunity comes with challenges:

• Rising utility costs, especially for cooling

• Operational stress during high-demand emergencies

• Looming climate-related regulations or taxes

Unlike aviation or cruising, which have industry-wide sustainability blueprints, the STR world is still fragmented, with no clear roadmap for how hosts and platforms can align with climate realities.

What STR Hosts Can Do Now

✅ Embrace AI Communication Tools

• Test guest messaging platforms that integrate with WhatsApp

• Use AI to provide local info, check-in help, or post-booking support

• Stay responsive without being online 24/7

✅ Prepare for Climate-Driven Demand

• List your property’s climate perks (shade, breezes, EV chargers, energy-efficient cooling)

• Offer longer stays or flexible arrangements for displaced guests or remote workers

• Monitor local environmental trends and plan for seasonal demand shifts

✅ Get Ahead on Sustainability

• Track your energy use and carbon impact

• Highlight eco-conscious practices in your listings

• Watch for regulatory changes and get involved in advocacy groups forming around STR sustainability

Final Thought: Tech and Climate Are No Longer Optional Conversations

From WhatsApp AI agents to heatwave-driven demand spikes, the STR industry is being reshaped by external forces and internal innovation.

The hosts who adapt—by making smart tech decisions and preparing for climate volatility—won’t just survive. They’ll lead.