By Vani Rangachar Los Angeles Times Staff Writer

January 27, 2008
As I write this, I am waiting to see whether Extravigator.com has accepted me as a member. The site reserves itself for "world travelers, with discriminating taste" (meaning with deep pockets) and screens would-be members by asking them for the name and location of their favorite hotel.

What's hot: Even if you don't have Bill Gates' budget, the site has useful suggestions from its members on where to stay and what to do in various parts of the world. Besides, it's fun to read as they dish on Mandarin Orientals or Four Seasons, even hotel slippers.

What's not: I haven't been accepted yet!

vani.rangachar@latimes.com