New Mexico is a beautiful state. I love the culture, the food, and the people, it is a wonderful place to be any time of the year, but winter is especially delightful in the land of enchantment. Wether you are looking for winter vacation destination, or just need a reminder of how truly incredible NM is, here are some reasons New Mexico is the ultimate winter wonderland.

It is finally pasole season.

At many authentic New Mexican restaurants, pasole is only available seasonally. Well, guess what? Winter is that season! There are few things I find more comforting than having a bowl of spicy pasole on a cold and snowy afternoon.

The mountains appear even more breathtaking than usual.

New Mexico is known for its dazzling mountain ranges, but when those mountain ranges are snow-capped? Stunning.

The entire state is glowing with luminarias.

Luminarias are brown paper bags filled with sand and a candle. These traditional decorations line every walkway and building during the holiday season. There are even luminaria bus tours that track around all of Albuquerque, showcasing neighborhoods that go over the top with Christmas lights and luminarias.

New Mexico is home to some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the country.

Taos, Angelifire, Pajarito and Sipapu are among some of the best ski valleys in the state.

The coffee shop scene is especially lively.

Albuquerque natives are lucky to have such a wide selection of excellent coffee shops. In the winter, those cafes are buzzing with holiday cheer and their lines stretch out the door and around the corner. If you have never been to Albuquerque, I suggest checking out The Brew and Gold Street Cafe. They are both in the downtown area and are both excellent!

The River Of Lights is a one-of-a-kind holiday must.

Each year, the Albuquerque Botanical Gardens are home to New Mexico's largest display of Christmas lights. The annual light show is a Christmas tradition for many families and is the perfect destination for a mid-winter date night.

When you spend the winter in New Mexico, you treat yourself to cultural feast of holiday spirit, long-lasting traditions and unforgettable spectacles. What are you waiting for? ¡Bienvenidos a la tierra encantada!