A longtime executive in the airline and travel industry, Veronica Jimenez parlayed her senior management experience at a large New York City travel agency into her own biz, New Concepts Travel, Inc. Since 1995, Jimenez’ agency has offered corporate travel booking services, vacation planning, and private or group tours to far-flung world destinations. “After working for others for many years, I decided to trust in my own abilities and strike out on my own,” Jimenez says. “I knew all it took was a little confidence and a strong belief in myself. I wanted to take control of my own livelihood and not be dependent on others.” It’s clear Jimenez built her business with a personal passion for travel, but the question remains—does she ever get a well-deserved vacation?