Winter, winter, where art thou, winter? Warmer-than-usual temperatures this year have people across the country asking that question. If you really want to see some snow, you just might have to renew your passport. The following destinations have plenty of winter to spare:

British Colombia

British Columbia, especially the area near Whistler, is not hurting for snow. In fact, this popular ski destination just experienced the most snow-filled November in recorded history, and more of the white powdery stuff is on its way. There's no need for snow machines here!

The French Alps

France's Alpine ski resorts, including Les Trois Vallées, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and others, have experienced excellent snowfall levels this year, with some resorts reporting up to 20 feet of natural snow. These mountains should be on any dedicated skier's life list anyway, and 2012 is a great year to give them a shot.

Jukkasjarvi, Sweden

Cold enough for you? If the answer to that question is "No," why not book a trip to Jukkasjarvi, Sweden, the home of the world's largest ice hotel? Everything detail of the hotel is exquisitely carved out of snow and ice from the nearby Torne River. Your suite is guaranteed to be a work of art, though obviously it will be a little bit chilly. Stay warm drinking hot cocktails, and make sure you stay the next night in one of the less attractive but heated rooms nearby.

Harbin, China

Harbin, China is another wonderful place to get acquainted with the beauty of ice as an art form. Forget those cheesy swan-shaped ice sculptures, the Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival is one of the largest festivals of its kind and features entire buildings constructed completely out of ice and illuminated at night. The festival lasts from January until March.

Dolomites, Italy

It's hard to beat the Dolomites for winter snow with an Italian flair. These mountains offer spectacular scenery, great skiing and excellent food to fuel yourself with. There are several notable resort towns and villages that cater to skiers, including Val Gardena and Alta Badia.

Of course, before you book your trip you will want to check your passport. Adult passports are good for a decade after they're issued, but time goes by faster than it seems like it should and it is easy for that expiration date to sneak up on you. If you need to renew your passport, be aware that the regular processing time is about six weeks. Expedited passport renewals may be processed in three weeks, but if you need your passport sooner than that, you should either make an appointment at the nearest regional passport agency office or use a private expediting service to renew your passport for you.