Planning a Vacation: Schengen Countries or Other Destinations?

Got a long break on the calendar? Then it’s the perfect moment to plan your next trip. If you’re looking for a fresh change of atmosphere, traveling abroad could be just what you need. But which destination is better? Should you explore Schengen countries or head to other destinations? Let’s dive into the comparison to guide your decision.

Countries You Can Visit

The Schengen Visa is often considered a special visa because it allows travelers to explore multiple countries with just one visa. That means you can visit every country within the Schengen Area without the hassle of applying for separate visas each time. Exciting, right?

In contrast, traveling to non-Schengen countries usually requires a separate visa for each country. This means that if you want to enter another country, you’ll need to apply for a new visa for that destination. Although some countries do offer a Visa on Arrival (VoA), you’ll still need to set aside extra time for the process.

Tourist Attractions 

 Both Schengen countries and non-Schengen destinations offer plenty of fascinating attractions worth visiting. However, as mentioned earlier, a Schengen Visa gives you the freedom to travel across multiple countries. Which means you’ll have plenty more places to see and experience. 

Also Read: Traveling with Kids: Family-Friendly Destinations in Schengen Countries

If you choose a non-Schengen country, you’ll only be able to enjoy the attractions within that single destination. However, this kind of trip may be more suitable if your vacation time is limited. You can fully focus on one country, and since every country has its own unique and diverse attractions, you’ll still have plenty to enjoy. 

Visa Application Process

Because the Schengen Visa offers wide-ranging benefits and travel flexibility, it’s understandable that the application process can be more complex. From financial requirements and Travel Insurance to other important documents, you’ll need to prepare everything thoroughly to get your visa approved. 

Also Read: How to Get Schengen Visa for Indonesian Citizens in 2025

This is not always the case if you choose to visit other countries outside the Schengen Area. Each country has its own rules and requirements for visa applications. For example, many ASEAN countries offer Visa on Arrival (VoA) for Indonesian citizens, making it much easier to visit multiple destinations. Meanwhile, Japan offers a Visa Waiver for travelers with electronic passports. 

 Travel Costs

Schengen countries are located in Europe, where most use the euro as their currency. The rupiah's exchange rate against the euro is relatively high, ranging from IDR 17,000 to IDR 19,000 per euro. This means you’ll need to prepare a larger budget if you’re planning a trip to Europe. Even the cost of applying for a Schengen Visa is €90 for adults and €45 for children under 12. When converted to rupiah, the cost exceeds one million.

On the other hand, traveling to non-Schengen countries gives you the flexibility to choose destinations that match your budget. If you’re on a tighter budget, you can opt for countries that accept VoA and have a lower currency exchange rate against the rupiah, allowing you to enjoy an affordable overseas vacation.

Those are the key factors to consider when deciding whether to travel to Schengen countries or other destinations. No matter where you choose to go, don’t forget to protect your journey with International Travel Insurance from MSIG Indonesia.