A Handy Skill to Have in Vegas
Some might say it’s handy to have a knack for gambling in Las Vegas. But I say it’s even handier to be able to ride escalators in a wheelchair.
It’s nearly impossible these days to cross the street on the street-level along the strip. Instead, a network of bridges connects the hotels above street-level. I’m sure this system keeps revelers from haphazardly staggering into oncoming traffic and safely steers them right into the casinos. But finding elevator access to each bridge can be a bit of a maze, and the elevators are really hot and slow.
That’s where riding up escalators comes in! If you’re in a manual chair, simply grab on to the moving rail on each side, and let the escalator pull you into place. Make sure you have a good grip, and then hang on for the ride. Going down an escalator involves the same process, but you have to go down backwards.
I don’t have to put disclaimers on this entry, do I? Like don’t try this at home? Or always make sure a friend stands behind you? Because you are all responsible people, right? Maybe I’ll just fall back on a cliché and say, what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas.
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I still remember standing outside the Bellagio trying to figure out what I would tell your mother if I had to call her because you fell down the escalator while you were learning that skill!
You're not the only one to think of my mom, A. In fact, another friend asked me this morning:
“Are you sure you want to blog about riding escalators? Won’t it upset your mom?”
I’m fairly sure that if my mom finds out I occasionally ride escalators, it will upset her. But here’s the thing. I don’t ride them to be daring or because it’s fun. I ride escalators out of necessity and convenience. It’s good to know that if an elevator breaks down while I’m in the subway I have another way to get myself and my wheelchair topside all on my own. That means I have to practice (in places like Vegas) to perfect the skill. Keeping up and being safe means I have to be a little daring. And I’m cool with that.
What my mom doesn't know won't hurt her.
That's my motto.
I will have to talk to my own mother about learning this skill but I think you have a point...