No house, no bills: Meet the Indian family who sold everything to live on a floating home

 

No house, no bills: Meet the Indian family who sold everything to live on a floating home

An Indian family has embraced an unconventional lifestyle, leaving behind corporate jobs and a traditional home to live full-time on a sailboat. Capt. Gaurav Gautam (Retd.), a former Indian Navy officer, along with his wife, Vaidehi Chitnavis, a former media professional, and their teenage daughter, Kaeya, set sail in 2022 on their 42-foot vessel, Reeva, which is now their floating home.

Through their Instagram account, The Reeva Project, the family shares snippets of their daily life, highlighting both the joys and challenges of living at sea. A post on their account stated, “We quit our jobs to live full-time on a sailboat. We sold off nearly everything we owned to make this dream come true. This is our home sailing vessel Reeva.”

The transition to a life on water was not an easy one. The couple sold nearly all their possessions, reducing their belongings from 6,000 kg to just 120 kg. “There was no point in holding on to things we couldn't keep on the boat,” they wrote in another post. Vaidehi, in particular, struggled with parting from a cherished heirloom—a Czechoslovakian crockery set passed down through generations. However, she knew it wouldn’t last in their new home and gifted it to a close friend instead.

A Dream Delayed, But Not Forgotten

Though Gaurav had long envisioned a life at sea, the idea had to be put on hold due to logistical and financial constraints. The COVID-19 pandemic, however, reignited his dream, as falling boat prices globally made owning a sailboat a more feasible option.

After acquiring Reeva, a 1988-built Tayana Vancouver 42 sailboat, the family faced initial apprehensions about their decision. “When we made the decision to leave our landlubber life behind and embrace an entirely different lifestyle, we were stepping into the unknown,” they reflected in a post. “Now, as we sail into 2025, we carry with us two incredible years of living this unconventional life.”

Homeschooling on the Waves

One of the biggest adjustments was Kaeya’s education. Instead of attending a conventional school, she is homeschooled on the boat. Her curriculum is enriched with lessons beyond textbooks—she learns about marine life firsthand, navigates using wind patterns, and experiences different cultures during their travels. For her, vacations mean endless days of snorkeling, honing her sailing skills, and watching the sunset from the deck.

Facing Challenges, Embracing Freedom

Living on a sailboat has its challenges. From navigating stormy seas to adapting to a minimalist lifestyle, the family had to pave their own path. “Things have never been easy, we had to pave our own path, as there was no precedence of a liveaboard family from our part of the world. But nevertheless, it has been an amazing 20 months,” they shared.

Additionally, their access to everyday conveniences has changed drastically. Gaurav humorously admitted, “Do you ever crave having a hamburger and then remember you can’t order it on Zomato?”

Inspiring Others to Take the Leap

Despite the hardships, the family finds immense fulfillment in their journey. Their story has resonated with thousands, as evidenced by their growing social media following. With over 8,000 followers on Instagram and a presence on YouTube, they aim to inspire others who dream of an offbeat life.

Reflecting on their experiences, they wrote, “It hasn’t always been smooth sailing; there have been challenges, doubts, and tough days. But with every wave we’ve conquered, every skill we’ve learned, and every bond we’ve strengthened, we’ve become more resilient, more connected, and more alive than ever before.”

Global Entry Program: A gateway for hassle-free US travel for Indian citizens

 

Global Entry Program: A gateway for hassle-free US travel for Indian citizens

Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program designed to expedite customs and border clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers entering the United States. Launched in 2008, Global Entry has become a preferred choice for frequent international travelers, offering convenience and efficiency at U.S. airports. India, in 2017, joined the list of countries whose citizens are eligible to apply for Global Entry, marking a significant milestone in enhancing travel convenience and bilateral ties between the United States and India.

This article explores the key aspects of the Global Entry program, including its benefits, eligibility criteria, the application process, reasons for denial, and the significance of India’s inclusion.

What is Global Entry?

Global Entry allows expedited clearance for pre-approved travelers upon arrival in the United States. Members enter through automated kiosks at select airports, bypassing the traditional customs process. The program saves time and reduces the stress associated with international travel.

At participating airports, Global Entry kiosks enable members to:

1. Scan their passports or U.S. permanent resident cards.
2. Complete a digital customs declaration.
3. Submit biometric information, such as fingerprints.
4. Receive a transaction receipt and proceed directly to baggage claim.

Benefits of Global Entry

1. Time Saving: Members bypass long immigration and customs queues at U.S. airports.
2. Convenience: The automated kiosks reduce paperwork and speed up processing.
3. Multiple Entry Points: Global Entry is available at over 75 U.S. airports and select pre-clearance locations worldwide.
4. Streamlined Travel: Ideal for frequent international travelers who prioritize efficiency and convenience.
5. TSA PreCheck: Individuals who are members of Global Entry get the added benefit of this program managed by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in the United States. It allows pre-approved travelers go through expedited security screening at participating U.S. airports. Key features of TSA PreCheck include:

• Expedited Screening: Members can use dedicated TSA PreCheck lanes, which are usually shorter than regular security lines.
• Streamlined Process: Travelers do not need to remove shoes, belts, or light jackets. Additionally, laptops and approved liquids can remain in carry-on bags during screening.
• Available for Flights Within and From the U.S.: While TSA PreCheck is primarily for domestic flights, some international flights departing or connecting through the U.S. offer this service if operated by participating airlines.

Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility for Global Entry extends to U.S. citizens, U.S. lawful permanent residents, and citizens of select countries, including India. Key eligibility requirements include:

• Citizenship: Applicants must belong to an eligible country.
• Age: No age restrictions exist, but minors require parental or guardian consent.
• Clean Record: Applicants must have a clean criminal record and no history of customs, immigration, or agriculture violations.
• Low-Risk Status: CBP conducts a thorough background check to determine if an applicant poses any security risks.

Tip: An immigration attorney can help determine eligibility for the program and provide guidance on completing the application correctly.This could help you avoid detrimental denial.

The Application Process

Applying for Global Entry involves the following steps:

• Online Application: Complete the application on the Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) website and pay the non-refundable US$100 application fee.
• Background Check: CBP conducts a detailed background check using law enforcement databases.
• Conditional Approval: Eligible applicants receive conditional approval, which allows them to schedule an in-person interview.
• Interview: Attend the interview at a designated Global Entry Enrollment Center. The interview includes a review of travel history, biometric data collection, and a discussion of program rules.
• Membership Approval: Approved applicants receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN) that is valid for five years.

Tip: An immigration attorney can also address concerns related to travel history or legal documentation that may arise during the application or verification process.

Background Verification for Indian Nationals

The Indian government conducts background checks for Global Entry applicants under a bilateral agreement with the U.S. This process involves coordination across multiple departments including the police department and security and confidential checks to ensure the applicant’s eligibility. Due to the complexity of the vetting process, the government does not specify any timelines.

The Indian government’s role is to provide assurance to the U.S. CBP about the applicant’s reliability, making the entire procedure rigorous and secure. It’s essential to note that this service is not a public offering for all Indian citizens but is limited to eligible applicants.

Tip: If there are delays or issues during the background verification, an immigration attorney may help liaise with relevant authorities to resolve them efficiently.

Reasons for Denial

Sometimes, applicants are not approved for Global Entry. Common reasons for denial include:

• Criminal History: A criminal record, including arrests or convictions, can disqualify an applicant.
• Customs or Immigration Violations: Past violations, such as smuggling or visa overstays, result in ineligibility.
• Inconsistent Information: Discrepancies in the application or during the interview can raise red flags.
• Failure to Meet Criteria: Applicants deemed high-risk based on their background checks may be denied.
• Unpaid Taxes or Fines: Outstanding government debts or fines can impact eligibility.

Applicants who are denied can file an appeal or seek reconsideration, but success depends on addressing the reasons for initial denial.

Tip: At each stage of the process, an immigration attorney can provide insights into required documentation, clarify legal queries, expedite the process where possible and help mitigate the risks of denial.

Conclusion

Global Entry represents a significant advancement in simplifying international travel, and India’s inclusion in the program is a testament to the deepening ties between the two nations. The program’s benefits, including time savings, convenience, and enhanced security, make it an invaluable resource for frequent travelers. However, applicants must meet stringent eligibility criteria and navigate a detailed application process to enjoy its advantages.

As the global travel landscape evolves, programs like Global Entry are key to promoting efficient and secure mobility. For Indian citizens, the opportunity to participate in Global Entry enhances their travel experience and underscores India’s growing prominence in international affairs. Whether for business, education, or leisure, Global Entry opens doors to a seamless travel experience, reflecting the shared commitment of the United States and India to fostering cooperation and connectivity.