German cyclist headed to New Zealand arrives in Türkiye

By Atahan Gezer and Muhsin Arslan

BILECIK, Türkiye (AA) - German cyclist Antonia Hogo, 20, arrived in Türkiye on her journey from Germany to New Zealand.

Hogo embarked on her trip in March from Konstanz, Germany and has been cycling for six months, covering thousands of kilometers through Europe.

Inspired by a New Zealand classmate when she was 9, Hogo's adventure has taken her through Austria, Hungary, Montenegro, Albania, and Greece before reaching Türkiye.

"I want to show that countries can be traveled by bicycle, especially as a 20-year-old lone female cyclist," Hogo told Anadolu.

She plans to share her journey with friends and family when she returns to Germany and hopes to inspire others to undertake similar adventures.

Hogo initially began the trip with a friend, who left the adventure in Croatia. She has since relied on a combination of tent camping and hospitality from cycling enthusiasts through a social network.

- Turkish hospitality

Hogo expressed an admiration for Turkish hospitality

"When we pass through cities and villages, they invite us to drink tea and eat. They are friendly and always invite me to their tables."

Hogo plans to continue her journey through Georgia, Central Asian Turkish republics, and Far Eastern countries before reaching New Zealand.

The agriculture student intends to temporarily engage in ecological farming in New Zealand before resuming her studies in Germany.

"Those who want to go on a tour like mine should not be afraid; they should believe in themselves," she said, emphasizing the personal growth and freedom she experienced during her journey.​​​​​​​