2020 brings in a new decade and with it, the desire to experience new things. A river cruise is one of the best ways to achieve this as they get you to the cultural spots outside of the main tourist hubs and into the heart of the action.

Our friends at Emerald Waterways has put together a list of top experiences that you need to try in 2020.

Enjoy coffee and cake with a Slovakian local family
What better way to get an insight into the Slovakian culture than to immerse yourself by sharing a cup of tea and some cake with a family in Bratislava. Owing to its diverse historical character, local culture is influenced by various ethnic and religious groups, including Germans, Austrians, Slovakians, Hungarians, and Jewish peoples.

Experience this, and the beauty of Bavaria on the award-winning 11-day Classic Prague & Danube Delights river cruise from £1,445 per person (departing 19 October 2020). Book during November and save up to 35 per cent, and pay the balance in full before 30 November to save an extra £250 per couple.

Visit Keukenhof Gardens with BBC Gardeners’ World Presenters
Who better to see the blooming tulips in spring with than Carol Klein and Joe Swift? With seven million bulbs planted for a feast for the eyes of 800 different types of tulips, it will be a gardener’s delight! Carol and Joe will be joining a special cruise with Emerald Waterways, on the 8-Day Holland & Belgium in Bloom with Carol Klein & Joe Swift river cruise whereby additional gardening treats such as a Q&A with the pair will be added to the itinerary.

Take this river cruise for £2,220 per person (departing 10 April 2020) staying in an Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite, with a special offer for November to save £1,000 per couple plus, book and pay before 30 November and save an extra £250 per couple.

Learn ballroom from a Strictly Come Dancing expert
One, two, Pasha-sha. Departing 3 April 2020, join ex Strictly Come Dancing Star and professional Latin and ballroom dancer, Pasha Kovalev and his dance partner onboard Emerald Waterways for a special dance masterclass. The pair will teach guests their favourite steps and offer hints and tips to perfect moves in this private and interactive session.

Pasha will be joining a special 8-Day Rumba down the Rhine with Pasha Kovalev river cruise where he will also perform at an exciting private event at Koblenz’ stunning Electoral Palace. A true highlight for a Strictly fan. This exclusive itinerary from £1,720 per person has a £1,000 savings offer for November, with an additional £250 per couple saving when the balance is paid in full before 30 November.

Take a dip in the Skradinski Buk falls
Don’t go chasing waterfalls? Obviously, TLC hasn’t been to this magnificent spot. On the Krka River, visit one of the most stunning waterfalls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is made of 16 cascading waterfalls that feed into a natural pool that guests can swim in. Enjoy this plunge on the 8-Day Islands of Dalmatia oceanic cruise for £1,695 per person (departing 16 April 2020). Book during November and save up to £1,000 per couple during November.

Try Saigon street food
Saigon, a true culinary master mecca for foodies. Get right down to the soul of this food city and spend three hours eating like a local. Join Emerald Waterways in Southeast Asia on the 15-day Majestic Mekong river cruise, from £3,995 per person (departing 21 July 2020). In November save up to £2,250 per couple plus unlimited free drinks whilst onboard the brand-new star-ship Emerald Harmony.

Prices include return flights transfers, accommodation on board an Emerald Waterways Star-Ship or a chartered Yacht, all onboard meals and selected *drinks, all tipping and gratuities, shore excursions, exclusive events and experiences.

Regional departures are available from up to 15 airports, including Birmingham, Edinburgh, East Midlands, Glasgow, Leeds – Bradford, Manchester and London Gatwick/Heathrow.

For more river cruise information, options and booking, visit www.emeraldwaterways.co.uk or call 0808 301 3352. T&C applies.