Is it just me or are guests getting more difficult?

[Patricia Andriolo-Bull]

Sort of a vent but also want to know if others are experiencing what I am. I've been doing the STR thing since 2016 (but my first one is in the Dominican Republic and has a property manager), my second one was purchased in 2020 that I've been managing myself. It has been great. I hear all the horror stories about airbnb and guests, demanding things, looking for discounts, breaking things. I've been lucky. I get most of my business through VRBO but a few through airbnb and even less from Booking.com. I have truly enjoyed the majority of my guests (a few ask dumb questions but I can deal with that). People have said they've seen demand decrease and ADR going down but I've been lucky to see the opposite. 2023 is on record to be my best yet (already booked more than all of 2022 and I have almost nothing for Sept - Dec). So, the problem? The last few months I'm getting a lot more dumb questions (like is there AC when it clearly states there's AC) and people asking for my "best rate". I never discount and do just fine. But now, the last few guests have been incredibly demanding. Not enough towels...the weather isn't good, random small things. I've gone out of my way, delivered extra towels, ordered extra Pickleball rackets, etc. This is what I believe generally sets me apart...the above and beyond stuff and easily responsive. But two guests ago didn't read my Welcome Guide (I know because Touchstay shows me the number of openings) then immediately texted me angry (mind you, after I let her check in 5 hours early) complaining of the pool rules, which were clearly outlined in the guide. They aren't ridiculous...no jumping or diving or playing with balls. I called the JW Marriott and Hilton for a reality check - this is pretty standard. I am BEACHFRONT! I provide body boards, beach toys, everything. But all they wanted was the pool and kept breaking the pool rules and got yelled at. And yes, they left me a crap 3 star review. The guest I currently have also called me 3 times on check-in. Didn't read instructions and was mad that he had to take the elevator to the 18th floor to get the keys in order to get a cart for his stuff. Then he complained that he needed to go through the gate every time he comes and goes from the condo. It says it right in the description, GATED COMMUNITY! Both of these guests have called me daily with complaints from weather, to towels, to keys, etc. Either I have had the best guests for nearly 3 years until now or people are become entitled crappy people. This is paradise! Is it just me or is anyone else seeing an uptick in ridiculous demands from guests? I will not cater to the fear of a poor review and customer service is my number one priority.