Better than a lap dance

It costs about 15 euros to take the tram from the Chamonix valley to the top of the Aguille du Midi, a change of over 2800 meters taking you to about 3800 meters in less than 10 minutes. The change in scenery is abrupt. Below, the French mountain town with fresh baguettes, stone houses with those oh so French shutters, hardcore gear stores, and groceries where you're not out of place in your climbing harness ordering pate (true story). Above, the white expanse of the Valle Blanche glacier surrounded by jagged peaks quietly staring right back at you. Yeah, a lap dance wouldn't leave you nearly as breathless (if nothing else because of the 30% decrease in oxygen concentration).

More pictures here.