Open-air escalators traverse the steep climb from sea to summit, a discordant ensemble of chugging metal entertaining locals and tourists alike. High-rise glitzy central quickly gives way to a more relaxed tree-lined colonial façade as one ventures from escalator to escalator. The ascent to the Mid-Levels is underway. Here it’s a world of kitsch cafes, pop-up restaurants and designer pet-shops, all sandwiched between the Cantonese business district and upper echelons of residential Victoria peak.