I've been a host in Kansas City and now Wichita. We cannot afford to use the Price Tips that Airbnb so cavalierly suggests to us. You have brought up some information that I've never heard, like consumers won't see your home if you don't go along with the suggested price tips. I used to live in Colorado Springs, so I know what you mean about it being a Vacation Destination.
At any rate, the price suggestions once had me booking 5 large Brazilians for $17/night for a 1700 foot condo. I turned it down, and then faced the rebuke from Airbnb. I would have had to clean for weeks, as I have a total of 3 queen beds, and 2 twin beds.
I have also learned the hard way that you must change your base price not only on the pricing page, but also on the calendar, as I have had guests book for less than my stated base price on the Pricing page. Upon discovering this, I looked everywhere, and found that my calendar still showed Smart Pricing!
I love being a host, but I'm not fond of washing sheets, cleaning bathrooms and kitchens for FREE. I have set a base price and now stick to it. Maybe I rent less often, but at least it's worth my time when I do.