Albania, first on summer destinations list outside Schengen area to visit

Taking a Schengen visa, to travel to any of the 27 current Schengen member states, has become a challenge for many people, not only because of the lack of countries for visa applications, but also because of the high degree of denial, which has increased in recent years.

About 18 % of the Schengen visa applications worldwide were rejected in 2022, the newly published Schengen visa statistics show. That means that one in five applicants has received negative answers.

The negative side of getting a Schengen visa, which is valid for six months, one year or more, is that you can't stay in the Schengen Zone all the time of visa validity. But you have the right to remain alone for a total of 90 days every 180 days.

However, a Schengen visa -- although issued exclusively by members of the Schengen Zone -- gives its holder the opportunity to travel to 17 other countries of the world, most of them in Europe, which are not part of the borderless zone.

The official visa site Schengen has chosen five of these countries, which are the perfect destination for you to spend your summer holidays, if you have already passed the allowed period in Schengen.

Albania

Albania is a candidate country for the European Union, located on the Balkan Peninsula of Southeast Europe, with visa policy in line with that of the EU, but, however, the position of a tourist in Albania is not calculated in the total legal period of staying in the Schengen area with short-term visas.

As a result, tourists can enter Albania with such a visa, and stay up to 90 days.

Albania is also one of the cheapest countries in Europe, and has a 450km coastline. It is well - known for the fascinating beaches, many of which are hidden outside the main roads, colorful natural landscapes, and historical sites, such as World Heritage sites in the U. Butrint's NESTO and Gjirokastra.

Bulgaria

Bulgaria is an EU member state, but has not yet joined Schengen, and as such, it allows access to travellers who have Schengen visas. Staying in this country is not estimated in the total Schengen position.

2023 could be the last year, one who can visit Bulgaria with a Schengen visa, as the country is at the end of the process of joining the borderless zone.

Montenegro

Another EU candidate country, which has approached visa policy with the bloc, is Montenegro. The country shares a border with Albania, so both countries can easily be visited on a trip.

Coastal cities are characterized by narrow roads, beautiful squares, ancient architecture, sandy beaches, and a vibrant night life. Some of the most famous cities are Kotor, Budva, Perast and St. Stefan.

Mexico

Quite surprising, but Mexico allows entry for Schengen visa holders, without forcing them to obtain additional tourist visas.

Although far from Europe, Mexico is a destination worth visiting, especially for travelers who love summer season, since the country is home to some of the world-renowned beaches such as Cancún, Tulum, Isla Mujerres, Cozumel and La Paz.

Turkey

Turkey also intends to become an EU member in the future. However, visiting Turkey with Schengen visa is a little more complicated, as it allows citizens' entry by a limited number of countries -- even they should be equipped with electronic visas.

Turkey offers tourists a wide variety of accommodations, from large hotels, welcoming hundreds of tourists at the same time to smaller homes and family hotels. The land is surrounded by many seas and is known for its hospitality and tasty foods.