Trip Log: Rancho Sta. Monica, Palawan

When I was still a kid, we used to go up this place a lot. The place is owned by the Mitras, a powerful political family in Palawan. You don't need to know people to get in. Their house simply has this breath taking view that they allow sightseeing on the grounds for free. From the area, you have a 360-degree view of the city proper, including a view of the Honda Bay.

Currently, they offer ziplines worth Php 500. If you ask me, the price is steep but there's a really fun part about this. Other than experiencing an exciting activity, you get to ride one of their horses to get back to the ranch. If you ask me, that's pretty neat by itself.

Getting inside the house though, is another story. This is where you need to know connections to get inside. After all, it is a house. So it would be awkward if people streamed inside the place day in and day out.

Inside the house, you'll see portraits of their mom and dad (left) and portraits of the good-looking boys. There are also the plaques and awards that the family has received throughout the years.

Fun fact: their dad was Ramos' opponent for presidency back in the day.

We were also able to absorb their backyard, which was still another vast area of green land overlooking the city. I was even lucky to meet the cutest dog ever!