The changes in my "symptoms" while traveling peaqued my interest, so I did some research a while back. There is an actual illness called "altitude sickness"! It's caused by shortness of oxygen at high altitudes. Your feelings (and mine as well) could very well be due to the changes in altitude. In some people the symptoms are more harsh than in others. Myself, I just feel a slight difference (enough to be annoying). Lol! It's so strange, but traveling to high or low altitudes actually have an effect on people! For instance, if I traveled to Ecuador I would more than likely have symptoms like: shortness of breath, dizziness, fatigue, or be sick to my tummy. Even though there is a possibility of sickness occuring, it would never stop me from traveling!
Unfortunaely, I haven't visited California yet. The most humid place I have traveled (so far) was Florida. When I first arrived, it was SO humid I felt like I could not breathe!! After a few days of being there however, I started to acclimate. I do know what you mean about feeling like breathing air around a pool. I have been to Atlanta, and the climate there is much like the climate where I live in Virginia. I went to a baseball game in Atlanta (towards the end of April). It was so cold I had to keep migrating to the guest shop where there was heat; just to stay warm! The month was almost MAY, but it felt like the middle of December! The weather is strange like that in some places. I haven't traveled out of the country, but anticipate to do so!
Thank you for the recommendations! New Mexico is a place that I have wanted to travel to for a very long time! It's on my bucket list. The places you described sound beautiful, and so much fun! I will definetly visit them when I do go. Oh, and the food!!!! That is one of the main reasons I can't wait to go! I watch YouTube videos of the food there. I love love love spicy food. It all looks so good! I can't wait to try it.
It's been great talking to you! Sorry it took me a bit to get back.