Can I use my existing WhatsApp number?

Yes, but you must first log out from personal/Business App. Smartur assists you during the registration process.

Does the bot answer all messages?

Depends on preference. In specific cases (complaints, special requests), the system automatically transfers to a human operator.

Is the message history kept in the system?

Yes, it is stored under the customer profile in compliance with GDPR/KVKK.

Which languages does the WhatsApp bot support?

Message language detection and responses are limited to Turkish and English. [Information about language support](/blog/cok-dilli-ai-bot-yabanci-musteri).

ai-whatsapp

Automated Booking with WhatsApp Business API: Step-by-Step Setup

How to set up automated booking with WhatsApp Business API? Approval process, template messages, NLP integration, and field-tested examples.

By Cem Bilgin · April 25, 2026 · 9 min read

The first point of contact between tour operators and customers now starts on WhatsApp. In our analysis, 63% of customers start their booking research via DM. Replying to these messages not in hours, but in seconds, is no longer a competitive advantage, but a necessity for continuity.

WhatsApp Business API vs Business App

WhatsApp Business App: The app on your phone. Single user, manual reply. Fine for small businesses but lacks automation.

WhatsApp Business API: Cloud-based, multi-user, open to automation and integration. Systems like Smartur use this API. It is the standard for corporate use.

Setup Process (7 Steps)

Create a Meta Business Manager account (business.facebook.com).
Open and verify a WhatsApp Business account (WABA).
Add the phone number you want to use (registered Business number or a new line).
Display name approval: Brand names like "Sky Fethiye Boat Tour" take 1-3 days.
Choose a BSP (Business Solution Provider) — Smartur acts as your partner here.
Write template messages and submit them to Meta for approval (24-72 hours).
Connect to the system, send your first test message.

Template Message Strategy

Meta defines three template categories: utility (booking confirmation), marketing (campaigns), authentication (OTP). The category you will use most is utility—low cost and easy to approve.

Things to know when writing templates: emojis are fine, the product name must be dynamic with a placeholder, and link rules are strict (especially in marketing). Keep a .json copy of approved templates.

NLP and Intent Recognition

The message "We are 4 people tomorrow, is there a balloon tour?" carries 4 intents for a bot: date, number of people, activity, availability. Without NLP, a bot cannot solve this. The Smartur AI bot parses this sentence, checks the inventory, and offers the correct alternative.

Cost Model

WhatsApp Business Platform fees may vary based on Meta's current pricing and message category. Which fees are included in Smartur usage depends on the current plan and provider terms; a fixed Meta message fee is not guaranteed.

Results in the Field

7/24 — Response time
+47% — WhatsApp conversion
−83% — Call center load
14 sec — Average response

Sıkça Sorulan Sorular

Can I use my existing WhatsApp number?: Yes, but you must first log out from personal/Business App. Smartur assists you during the registration process.
Does the bot answer all messages?: Depends on preference. In specific cases (complaints, special requests), the system automatically transfers to a human operator.
Is the message history kept in the system?: Yes, it is stored under the customer profile in compliance with GDPR/KVKK.
Which languages does the WhatsApp bot support?: Message language detection and responses are limited to Turkish and English. Information about language support.