London commuters were given a taste of holiday cheer without leaving the city, thanks to Virgin Atlantic's multi-sensory experience at Southbank's Observation Point. The event offered an invigorating boost complete with pre-flight beverages, destination-inspired fragrances, and a rejuvenating session of red-light therapy.

This unique blend was designed to evoke the same emotional and physiological reactions associated with going on holiday, such as excitement, elevated mood, reduced stress, and enhanced emotional wellbeing. Guests were greeted by cabin crew and invited to relax in a Clubhouse-style bar before settling into a luxurious Premium seat for a 10-minute light therapy session.

The treatment, which uses red light wavelengths between 630 and 700 nanometres, is designed to replicate the mood-enhancing, glow-inducing, and sleep-improving effects of a holiday. It has been scientifically proven to leave individuals glowing from within.

The soothing hum of jet engines added to the atmosphere, triggering a strong sense of wanderlust among guests. Scent also played a significant role, with the comforting aroma of sweet Caribbean coconut, warming saffron from Mumbai's street food stalls, and roasted coffee beans from a New York deli permeating the air.

Lifestyle coach Adrienne Adhami, who helped design the experience, said: “Modern life is fast and busy, our calendars are packed, our minds are overloaded, and we’re constantly on the go. We all need moments to reset, and that’s exactly what the Red Spirit Retreat offers.

“This experience gives people a chance to recharge, and to feel that spark of excitement we associate with travel. From mood-boosting red-light therapy to the sensory details that tap into positive memories, it’s a reminder of how important travel is to our wellbeing.”

The retreat comes at an opportune time as research involving 2,000 adults revealed that 49% have yet to plan their 2025 holidays. Many are yearning for the thrill of new experiences (57%), meeting new people (20%), and immersing in different cultures (44%).

A spokesperson from Virgin Atlantic, which is also offering its red-light therapy experiences at its stores in Merry Hill, Trafford Centre, Bluewater, Meadowhall, Lakeside, and Liverpool, stated: "Travelling with us is an exciting and energising experience – from our charismatic cabin crew to the unique touches we offer onboard.

"The Red Spirit Retreat gives Londoners a mood boosting experience and a taste of how it feels to fly with us before experiencing the real thing on their next holiday."