The MidLevel Escalator, the world's longest outdoor escalator, is something of a surreal experience. For some people it is actually part of their daily commute as they travel from areas near Victoria Peak down into the Central and Western District. But for the visitor it offers a gently moving aerial tour through the life of the city. At times the escalator is elevated quite a distance above street level, but is within a couple of feet of the neighboring buildings. As you glide up the hill, you find yourself peering into restaurant kitchens, music shops, galleries, bookstores, and printing presses. It is a voyeur's paradise, but to keep it all legitimate, the view has been obstructed by faux stained glass when it passes by private residences. As you are transported up the moving sidewalk, you can't help feeling that you are visiting a strange museum in a futuristic city. next...