The omicron variant of COVID-19, which was first detected in South Africa, has so far resulted in fewer deaths and hospitalizations than previous waves. Though some experts warn not to take the variant lightly, life has almost returned to normal in cities such as Cape Town, where restaurants and bars are open for the first time since the pandemic began.

The hotel industry is "60 percent distressed, 40 percent optimistic" as it confronts the next wave of the coronavirus pandemic. That's the view of Sébastien Bazin, the CEO of AccorHotels, the largest hospitality company in Europe. Bazin spoke to FRANCE 24 about the challenges and opportunities facing the sector. He says European government aid has been "indispensable" but that member states need to coordinate more on travel guidelines, and forecasts the region won't return to pre-pandemic occupancy levels until 2023.