27/09
One; remain VFR and divert around the weather to the destination, return to my departure point or land at a suitable nearby airfield.
Two; if I was able to join an IFR route at or above MSA I would pick up an IFR clearance.
The other option you seem to allude to, that is just go IMC to get to VMC conditions runs shivers of fear up my spine. Too many people have got killed doing that.
Ok it seems to be joining an IFR route that is the difference, what would be wrong with climbing to MSA or MORA flying the correct semi circular altitude or FL, if there is no ATC then board cast your intentions if required and continuing ? in many parts of the world there are places with no published IFR routes but you can still operate IFR outside controlled airspace especially in remote areas.