Although the U.S. Virgin Islands, which include St. John, St. Croix and St. Thomas, are part of the United States, many in the islands felt nonexistent as mainstream media covered Hurricane Irma’s trajectory with nary a mention of the territories where many Americans gladly sun-and-fun sans passport.

The history of the U.S. Virgin Islands is filled with stories of survival, perseverance and pride. And when you visit St. Croix, St. Thomas and St. John, that history is contained within every step you take. It’s been 100 years since the islands became a U.S. territory, and tourism is a huge part of the USVI.