Tulum is so dependent on tourism.

We mostly operate in Seaside Heights, NJ, which is a beach town that is tourism driven.

Excluding the covid years, tourism in Brazil has been growing at a steady rate year over year.  

I think you want to pick markets which have a strong following and year round tourism, that you know and have visited and that have clear demand. 

.- Tourism and Hospitality Businesses: Some local forum post mention that Cookeville has a strong tourism and hospitality industry, which could drive demand for furnished short-term rentals and extended stay hotelsI also checked to see what other listings are available and found about 4 comparable listings ranging from $1300-1500/month.

Tourism's Resilience: The tourism sector has historically bounced back from economic downturns.

I'm not talking about a location based on tourism where zoning allows for STRs, hotels and they have existed there for decades.I'm talking about residential zoned areas.

I understand that you want to look for a place with year round tourism, growing tourism stats, favorable STR regulations, etc.

Branson being a very high tourism area, I believe, understands the need and importance for STR.

Decades of regional tourism and STR-friendly regulations.