ShortStay Crete Conference: the must-attend conference for short-term rentals in Crete

November 2nd brings a unique opportunity for all short term rental professionals in Crete: the ShortStay Crete Conference in Chania, promises to highlight key issues and trends for the future of the industry. The wealth of knowledge the programme brings, which can be found here, includes everything from presentations and panels to fireside chats and interactive workshops, designed specifically to address the needs and challenges of those in the short-term rental industry.

Why attend the ShortStay Crete conference

Short term rental is an important source of income for the island of Crete. However, changes in legislation, technological advances and new traveler trends require professionals to remain constantly updated and adaptive. The ShortStay Crete Conference offers the following valuable opportunities:

1. Understanding the New Regulations
   Recent changes in short-term rental legislation are raising questions and concerns about compliance and the viability of professionals. The panel “Surging Demand and New Regulations: Navigating Growth and Compliance” with speakers including Viktorija Molnar, Theoharis Michaelidis and Stratos Beretis, will provide deeper knowledge on how to navigate safely in the new regulatory framework.
2. Analytics from the Market’s Leading Platforms
   Representatives from the leading platforms Airbnb, Booking.com and Vrbo will discuss the latest developments and opportunities for owners and managers in Crete, ensuring a global update on best practices and ways to maximize revenue.
3. Fireside Chat with Vrbo’s James Cassidy
   In a relaxed fireside chat with James Cassidy, Senior Director, Partner Success Vacation Rentals, EMEA at Vrbo, attendees will have the opportunity to examine short-term rental issues from the perspective of one of the largest platforms, focusing on contemporary challenges and opportunities.
4. Market Analysis by Hosthub
   Alexandros Karavitis, CEO of Hosthub, will provide a comprehensive look at the current state of the market and strategies to help property managers and owners maintain a competitive edge in today’s growing industry.
5. Financial and Investment Perspectives
   Maria Gkonda’s presentation will focus on current investment trends in the short-term rental sector, offering valuable advice for Crete property management professionals looking to make the most of their growth potential.
6. Tourism and Emotional Intelligence
   Emotional intelligence is now an essential tool for the tourism industry. Eleni Barbagianni’s presentation from Etouri is expected to offer unique approaches to the trends of 2025 and the importance of emotional intelligence for a successful and sustainable hospitality experience.
7. Improving Customer Experience
   The ability to manage reviews and complaints can be critical to a property management companies reputation. Presentations such as that of, Manos Dafermos from CreteVillas4u, which focus on preventing complaints and improving reviews, are extremely valuable in maintaining and raising a property’s profile.
8. Update on Technological Developments
   Technology plays a catalytic role in improving the experience of both owners and guests. Keynote speakers such as Lorenzo Lella from Octorate will share the latest innovations in the space, such as artificial intelligence solutions, and how they are helping to manage and promote properties.
9. Practical Tips for Increasing Profitability
   From strategizing for maximum performance to improving the visitor experience, you’ll get the chance to hear practical advice from expert speakers. For example, Monica Melo from Beyond will give useful insights into the recognized revenue strategy and how to achieve the best possible results.

Networking and Collaboration Opportunities

The conference is also a unique opportunity to network with industry leaders and other local professionals. Connecting with other property manager, platforms and software providers enables you to exchange experiences, ideas and solutions to common challenges, creating potential partnerships that will benefit short-term rental in Crete.

Special Interactive Workshops

The ShortStay Crete Conference will host four workshops:

The workshop “The value of institutional representation” by Theoharis Michaelidis and Stathis Karopoulos will focus on the value of institutional representation, a topic that is becoming more and more important due to the increased pressure exerted by new regulations and the global market.

The workshop “How to establish your brand with Whatsapp & Instagram” by Daniela Derin, will offer knowledge and advice on creating a strong brand through the use of social media platforms WhatsApp and Instagram.

The workshop “A New Era for Hosts: Streamline operations with advanced AI solutions” by Andreas Meladianos of PrimeHost will present the latest developments in the field of artificial intelligence, allowing owners to automate key processes and save time and resources.

In “Automation in reservation management, communication and billing“, by Vassilis Iliakis of loggia – webhotelier | primalres, participants will explore innovative methods of automation in booking management, guest communication management and billing processes, enhancing the efficiency of their businesses.

Overall, the ShortStay Crete Conference is a comprehensive platform of knowledge and innovation to address the challenges of short-term rentals. Your participation can prove critical to the adaptation and development of your business in this demanding market