APL Media is pleased to celebrate two of its exceptional freelance contributors who have received accolades for their work with National Geographic Traveller (UK) and Food by National Geographic Traveller (UK). Congratulations to Orla Thomas and Toyo Odetunde. 

30 April 2025 – Spain Talks Awards, London  
At the Spain Talks Awards 2025, hosted by Lotus, Orla Thomas won the Consumer Magazine Sustainable Tourism Feature of the Year (Print) for her evocative piece, ‘Paella villages, cycle paths and wetland boating on a slow tour of the Valencia region’, published in the September 2024 issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK). The article offers readers an immersive, slow-travel perspective of Valencia and is a prime example of sustainable travel journalism done right. 
Read the feature online here. 

1 May 2025 – Fortnum & Mason Food and Drink Awards, The Royal Exchange, London 
At the Fortnum & Mason Food and Drink Awards 2025, Toyo Odetunde was named Food Writer of the Year for her article, ‘4 essential West African dishes and how to make them’, published in Issue 25 (Autumn 2024) of Food by National Geographic Traveller (UK). The piece highlights the cultural richness and culinary heritage of West Africa through personal storytelling and traditional recipes.  
Read the feature here. 

The wins reflect the exceptional quality of storytelling that underpins our editorial partnerships. 

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About APL Media    
APL Media is a multi-award-winning content marketing agency and publisher, producing high-quality print, digital and live media across the travel and lifestyle sectors. Founded in 1997, it publishes National Geographic Traveller (UK), supported by a portfolio of brand extensions including bespoke guides, supplements, events and digital platforms. APL Media delivers impactful, audience-focused storytelling through custom content, branded campaigns, editorial consultancy and industry-leading events such as the Travel Media Awards and the professional development initiative Step Up. Its trade publishing portfolio includes Postcards and the ASTA Worldwide Destination Guide, while it also creates and supplies digital and print content for a number of national newspapers.
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