Dutch cyclists complete 20,000 km journey across 24 countries to Vietnam

Rick Keijzer, 21, and Sven Broekhuizen, 25, cycled nearly 20,000 km before reaching Vietnam. On Sunday, they joined more than 400 participants at a cycling event in Ho Chi Minh City to mark the completion of their expedition.

Sven Broekhuizen (L), one of two young men who cycled to Vietnam to participate in an event in Ho Chi Minh City on Feb. 16, 2025. Photo by VnExpress/Ha Giang

The duo set off from their hometown in the Netherlands on March 10, 2024, aiming to reach Vietnam entirely by bicycle. Their year-long adventure took them across diverse landscapes, from modern European cities and the vast steppes of Central Asia to the bustling roads of Southeast Asia.

Throughout their journey, they documented their experiences on a blog and social media, sharing the natural beauty and cultural diversity of each destination.

"We were really impressed by how open and friendly the people in Vietnam are," said Keijzer after spending nearly a week in HCMC. Both he and Broekhuizen are eager to meet local cycling enthusiasts, exchange stories, and learn from the community.

Promoting cycling and sustainability

Rick, an avid traveler, developed a love for cycling after working abroad, which inspired this journey alongside Sven, who shares his passion. Beyond the challenge, they aimed to promote environmentally friendly transportation, perseverance, and the joy of experiencing life at a slower pace.

As part of their mission, they partnered with Coop Africa, a Dutch charity that provides bicycles to students, healthcare workers, and farmers in Kenya and Uganda, helping them access essential services. The cyclists hope to raise funds to support more underprivileged individuals through this initiative.

Speaking at the event, Daniel Coenraad Stork, Consul General of the Netherlands in HCMC, highlighted cycling's environmental benefits, its role in improving air quality, and its positive impact on public health. He also emphasized how bicycles can complement HCMC's new metro line as a sustainable transport option.

Rick Keijze and Sven Broekhuizen pose for photos with participants of a cycling event in Ho Chi Minh City. Photo by Vn/Express/Ha Giang

Tran Trong Dung, President of the Vietnam-Netherlands Friendship Association in Ho Chi Minh City, reinforced the event’s message of "cycling for the future." He noted that beyond promoting physical fitness, the program aims to strengthen ties between Vietnam, especially HCMC, and the Netherlands, fostering collaboration across various sectors.