I would say if you buy a STR in a tourist area where the economy is driven by tourism then there is a good chance you’ll be fine.  

I know Covid probably didn’t help, but Gatlinburg tourism has ridden the waves of economic ups and downs in a stable way.

Tourism looks to be doing really well where I am. 

Punta Cana does offer the advantage of not having to pay taxes, but keep in mind it receives less tourism compared to Mexico.In Tulum, the market is becoming competitive, especially in standard studio, 1 & 2 bedrooms.

You'll notice how many hotels are around airports.Those there for actually town tourism will probably want something more central and peaceful and walkable and close to the action. 

What type of traveler do you most often find renting there, ie for business, for tourism, etc? 

In Tampa, you have STR travel based on education tourism (USF & UT), medical tourism (some of the best hospitals including Baycare and TGF) and sports tourism (Bucs stadium & Lightning arena).

But with our "Vietnam-like weather" (hot, wet, humid) it's the perfect storm. 

Do you mean tourism?

I live in Maine where we get 37 million visitors every year with a population of only 1.3 million so summer tourism is the life blood of the state.