As an European from the Shengen Area, I never really considered the UK a part of EU. London is 2H30 from my home (Paris), but I found going to Roma or Barcelon

As an European from the Shengen Area, I never really considered the UK a part of EU. London is 2H30 from my home (Paris), but I found going to Roma or Barcelona more easy, since I don't need any ID (and don't have to deal with customs and the induced delays). I board the train on the evening, and when I wake up I'me ready for a week-end abroad. It's also cheaper, but that can be explained by the technical feat required to create The Channel Tunnel.