Planet Mermaid Blog
Mermen – A Forgotten Legend
When one hears the word “mermaid” you automatically think of beautiful females swimming gracefully amongst the waves with long flowing hair wearing gorgeous mermaid tails and mermaid tops. Sometimes we forget that in addition to the romantic mermaid legends there are just as many fables about mermen. Different stories you read contain contradictive information about their demeanour. Some have them to be warm-hearted whilst others claim they were unattractive and mean spirited. It was in Western Europe where the legend of the merman was strong in decades gone. Ireland folk called merpeople “merrows” who were thought to be both good and bad depending upon the thoughts of the tales authors. Repeated stories throughout the Dark Ages described the male merrows as being hideous horrible creatures whilst the female merrows were kind and attractive. Legends also have mermen to be ancient gods. A famous god known to all mermaid lovers from the book “The Little Mermaid” was the father of Ariel, King Triton. Triton was an ancient Greek god of the sea and he was the son of gods Poseidon and Amphitrite. He was depicted as half-man-half-fish with long hair and acknowledged to have caused great storms of the sea. Another god of the sea and fellow merman was “Glaucus”. Legend has it that he ate a magical herb that led him into the transformation to a sea god. He was said to be the confidant of the sea and guardian of sailors. Mermen are not just a thing of the past there has been a big increase in the number of men who have recently started dressing up as mermen. Some see it as a way of expressing their love for the sea and others have made it their profession working as resort entertainers or models, all of whom have large social media followings. There are many exclusively designed products on the market including mermaid tails and other merchandise for mermen or merboys. One company in particular Planet Mermaid has a dedicated line for merboys called Planet Shark. This collection sees boy’s mermaid tails, monofins, t-shirts and shark leggings designed exclusively for merboys.Now the boys can chase the mermaids as a shark complete with a shark fin and cool tail!! Watch out mermaids the merboys are coming to get you! Visit www.planetmermaid.com to view our latest in amazing mermaid and shark tails for kids and adults alike! Keep mermaiding and sharking
Bringing your mermaid dreams to life!
The mermaid phenomenon has brought about a craze for everything mermaid, whether you are going to a fancy dress party or dressing up for Halloween, you can transform your passion into reality and have any excuse to indulge in your passion. The custom of dressing up has been around for hundreds of years; in fact, the first recording was in 1911 when people dressed up for Halloween in North America. Since then this fun past-time has just kept growing and now you can dress up for virtually any occasion. The fun part of dressing up as a mermaid is that you can tailor it for any occasion. There are so many party ideas out there now to give you inspiration to become your ultimate mermaid fantasy. Below are a few of our personal favourites: We just love that fact that everyone can get involved - from men, women, boys and girls, it is not gender specific. The effort that goes into the make-up is truly staggering; people really bring their fantasies to life, it is a true art form. For those who want to go that extra mile and swim as a mermaid, there are plenty of mermaid tails for adults and kids to choose from. To finish the look you can also accompany your tail with a mermaid top or mermaid bikini, mermaid leggings, monofin, mermaid accessories including scrunchies, mermaid T-shirts and swim bags. The best selection can be found below: Go on, let your imagination shine through and please send us your pictures through our social media – we’d love to see them and share with fellow mermaid lovers. Keep mermaiding! Visit our website to view our latest in amazing mermaid tails for kids and adults alike.
Want ideas for a more exciting way to exercise.....
When it comes to exercising, we’ve always opted for the traditional but, one could argue, slightly boring option of running, whether that be on the road, in the park or even on the treadmill. We’ve never given anything else much thought…well until now! Who’d have known there were so many different and exciting alternatives to keeping fit? Particularly mermaid swimming. Yes, you did hear that right. You can relive your childhood fantasies whilst getting fit at the same time! It has been proven that if you attend classes on a regular basis, and healthy eating is implemented, your body will start to become healthier and stronger. Not only that, but your posture will also change due to the body positioning in the pool and core work. Your overall cardio will also improve over the weeks and you’ll notice a change in your posterior muscles….always a bonus in our book. @kimkardashian, eat your heart out! ‘How does it work?’ I hear you ask. Well, the idea is that the movements are slow and graceful, making the swimming look effortless. The joined legs covered with the tail give the effect of no legs and, as the fin is covered and your feet are hidden, it gives the tail effect. This then encourages the swimmer to use a flutter kick known as a butterfly leg kick. The motion of the butterfly kick is a very different process once you’re a mermaid. The costume gives you full support to complete the swimming style and the Magic Fin enables a greater speed - together, they are the essence of mermaiding. Swimming with a Magic Fin helps with your overall body position and improves your technique in the water by creating extra buoyancy as you swim. Fin swimming is a new way of learning swimming techniques and co-ordination while improving your overall fitness. This excellent idea is the brainchild of Mermaid Wave Swim School who hold mermaid classes all around the country, run by experience mermaid swim instructors. All the kit is provided so no added expense is needed - all you need to do is turn up, have fun and transform into a mermaid. Given you an appetite to find out more? With centres all around the UK there is no excuse not to check us out. Vvisit https://www.planetmermaid.com/pages/mermaid-swimming-school or call us on 01234 352488. Remember, it’s not just for adults, children can have mermaid fun too. To find out more please visit www.mermaidwave.com See you in the pool!
Are Mermaids Real?
New year… new thought and one which I am sure you are all wondering.“Are mermaids real?” “Do they actually exist?”This question has been asked a million times over, have there been real sightings or are we letting our imagination get the better of us and want to truly believe in this magical phenomenon? Mythology has claimed that mermaids or mermaid like creatures have been on our planet for thousands of years, some even claim to have originated as yearly as 1000 B.C. There are countless stories that tell of “real life” encounters. Captain John Smith's real mermaid One of those stories being from a sea captain “Captain John Smith” who described how he saw a mermaid swimming with such grace, her eyes were large and she had a finely shaped short nose and well-formed ears that he said were rather too long! Her hair was long and green which he went on to state “imparted to her an original character that was by no means unattractive”. In fact Smith fell for the mermaid’s beauty and started to fall in love with her until he had the realisation that she was a fish from the waist down. Infamous Christopher Columbus real mermaid story Another encounter, and probably one of the most famous, came from Christopher Columbus. Columbus had claimed he had spotted mermaids near Haiti in 1493 which he went on to describe them as being “not as pretty as they were depicted, for somehow in their face they look like men” a quote taken from the American Museum of Natural History. Modern mermaids - New Zealand More recently sightings have been seen around the world, in 2012 workers were reported to have been scared off a dam they were working on by an irate mermaid and then more recently in 2014 fishermen claimed to have found remains of a mermaid in the South Island of New Zealand. Fiji / Feejee mermaid This "real" mermaid is probably one of the most famous ones due to this mermaid remains having a large number of replicas and therefore photo proofs!Fishermen in certain areas were known for manufacturing mermaids by stitching bodies of little mammals, such as apes onto the fish bodies to create the mermaid looking creatures. They didn't look like beautiful charming women at all.Fiji mermaid, also known as Barnum's mermaid was bought by the American captain Samuel Barrett Edes from Japanese sailors in 1822. The mermaid remains changed a few owners and ended up sold to the famous showman Phineas Barnum who was known for his passion to hoaxes and curiosities. Barnum invited a naturalist to examine the mermaid and even though he wasn't convinced it was real, he couldn't prove it is was a man-made creation as he couldn't understand how it was manufactured.The Fiji mermaid was displayed in numerous places including the American Museum of Natural History. It has been lost during the multiple fires in the 1860th. In conclusion there is no real scientific evidence of their actual existence but none either to conclude that they are just a fantasy. We love the idea of their existence and relish in their fantasy. We can now even become mermaids ourselves and swim freely in the sea or pool in our own mermaid tails, mermaid tops, mermaid leggings, monofins and amazing mermaid accessories. Whether we are an adult or a child there are mermaid tails out there for all to experience this amazing phenomenon. Visit our shop to view our latest in amazing mermaid tails for kids and adults alike! Keep mermaiding
Why is there a big mermaid phenomenon?
If you have a little person like me who is obsessed with anything mermaid related do you ever stop to wonder how it all came about? It fascinates me that mermaids have occupied our imagination for thousands of years, originating in ancient Assyria with the legend of goddess Atargatis, whose worship spread to Greece and Rome and Atargatis the goddess of fertility who is associated with a fish-bodied goddess at Ascalon. It is even thought that worship of Atargatis and Ascalon eventually merged into one, leading to the description of one ‘mermaid-goddess’ It just blows my mind that mermaids are swamped in history and even to this day are such a big part of our lives through one way or another. Famous films, both for adults and children alike, are still a big hit and are watched time and time again never growing old. New and exciting merchandise is coming out daily including tails you can actually swim in and feel like a real mermaid and to my utter delight they are not just for the little ones! www.planetmermaid.com Other great examples I have found are.. Keyrings www.amazon.co.uk Cushions www.amazon.co.uk Mermaid Hangers www.planetmermaid.com Make up brushes…one for the older clientele! www.planetmermaid.com Beach Towels www.etsy.com Bath Bombs www.etsy.com and finally one of my favorites which I think just sums being a mermaid lover Bracelets www.etsy.com Personally I think its success comes down to the fact that there is no age limit associated with enjoying anything mermaid related, no matter whether you are big or small. Mermaiding in any form is just simply magical. Will this phenomenon end….I very much doubt it! Keep mermaiding!
Need Party Inspiration Ideas? Give Mermaid Wave Swim parties a go!
If you’re a parent and dread that time of year when you need to come up with new and exciting party ideas for your little one, we have the answer – Mermaid Wave Swim School parties. Mermaid Wave Swim School has different packages available depending upon your child’s age and interest. Whichever package you choose, your little ones will enjoy every second, guaranteed. The party is run by one of our many qualified instructors, who will show your mermaids and sharks how to swim in their tails, while taking them on a magical storytelling adventure. At the end of the pool session all children then receive a certificate, followed by a group photo sent via email. Mermaid Wave takes all your worries out of child entertainment, so you just need to concentrate on feeding your hungry mermaids or sharks at the end of their session. Need some inspiration? Don’t spend hours on the internet, just try out our handpicked options. Mermaid or shark Sandwiches The pièce de résistance….the CAKE So many to choose from…. Or even go mer-tastic with an amazing unicorn mermaid cake - Your daughters would love this! Then to end the party of all parties, go out with a bang and some amazing party bag ideas. Given you an appetite to find out more? With centres all around the UK, there's no excuse not to check us out. Visit our swim school page or call us on 01234 352488. Remember, it’s not just for children - adults can have mermaid fun too. To find out more, please visit www.mermaidwave.com
Have a Fantastic Festive Season!
Have a fantastic festive season! Who said Christmas can’t be all about mermaids? From the top of the tree to the party games and wrapping paper, we’ve got your Under The Sea theme covered… Tree-mendous trees Whether you live by the sea or by the train station, you can still bring the ocean into your home. From starfish baubles to jingling jelly fish and colourful clown fish, these types of Christmas trees are every mermaid lover’s dream. Sea-ing is believing! All wrapped up Ready to wrap up your Planet Mermaid tail, but fed up with all the snowmen, sprigs of holly and cute teddies that adorn all the usual festive wrapping paper? Just use some gorgeous mermaid wrapping paper instead – then place it perfectly under your mermaid-mad Christmas tree. It’ll look so so-fish-ticated. Oh, La La Toast! What’s your Christmas morning breakfast tradition? Forget the salmon and Bucks Fizz and try these delicious French toast mermaids. All you need is a mermaid cookie cutter, a frying pan, eggs, milk and bread. Then, voilà, you have your very own festive treat. Snail’s pace Who needs pigs in blankets when you can have sea snails? With some yummy hot dogs and puff pastry, you’ve got the ideal accompaniment to your turkey and roast potatoes. We’re not sure they’d go swimmingly with gravy though! Twist it Filled your tums with Christmas dinner and all the trimmings? Now it’s time for Mermaid Twister! The rules? Simple: they’re the same as normal Twister, you just need to wear your Planet Mermaid Tail and spin the wheel – ‘Left hand right, tail fin left!’ Just keep that balance and you’ll be fin-tastic! Lazy mermaids The games are over, the turkey sandwiches are in the fridge and it’s time to chill on the sofa. But instead of the same old Home Alone, Elf and Love Actually, these films might float your boat instead: The Little Mermaid Splash Aquamarine Barbie In A Mermaid Tale Killer Mermaid The Little Mermaid II: Return To The Sea Mermaids Mr Peabody and The Mermaid The Thirteenth Year Fish Tales If this isn’t enough to make your Christmas mermaid-filled, just head over to grab one of our festive stockings and fill it to the brim with all our stocking fillers. You’ll be saying Ho Ho Ho in no time!
Meet you over the Rainbow. New Collection out now!
Rainbow ready We love all of our Planet Mermaid Tails,’ our Planet Mermaid designers told us, ‘but when it came to the Rainbow Collection, we wanted something that would brighten everyone’s day like a summer’s carnival. So, we merged the Royal Koi Collection scales with the bright rainbow spectrum and voila! Enjoy, mermaids! Coral Carnival Mermaid Tail With ALL the colours of the rainbow, this gorgeous multi-coloured tail is perfect for those of you who like to add a splash of magic wherever you go. And with one flip of your fin, the mesmerising stripes will leave a stream of ribbons behind you. Pacific Rainbow Mermaid Tail Even in the largest ocean on Earth, the Pacific Rainbow Mermaid Tail is off the scale! Just like the famous Rainbow Fish, mermaids with these tails will shimmer and shine in the deep blue and be the envy of all the sea life. Atlantic Dream Mermaid Tail If stripes aren’t your thing, maybe a shimmering blue will float your mermaid boat… Even at temperatures below freezing in the Atlantic Ocean, these mermaids exude warmth, love and happiness in every wave. Bubblegum Beach Mermaid Tail Fancy being head to toe in all the colours and shades of a summer’s day rainbow? Then blow some bubbles with our Bubblegum Beach Mermaid Tail. With vibrant oranges and pinks, plus deep purples and blues, you will look fintastic. End of the rainbow Be a Rainbow Mermaid from head to fin with our… Coral Carnival and Pacific Rainbow Mermaid Crop Tops Coral Carnival and Pacific Rainbow Mermaid Tankinis Coral Carnival and Pacific Rainbow Mermaid Briefs But fear not mermaids, these cute items also match the Atlantic Dream and Bubblegum Tails. So, whether you’re taking a dip in the pool or lounging on the sofa on a Saturday afternoon, now you can look the whole part. Mermaid mane Fed up with wet locks stuck on the back of your neck while doing your mermaid thing? Simple. Tie them up with a Coral Carnival and Pacific Rainbow Hair Srunchy or Hair Wrap. Then swim away mermaids, swim away! Now, go, find the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow and fall in love with our new collection today.
Christmas is Coming
Festive mermaid fun Christmas is coming, the shops are filling up with all things glittery and Planet Mermaid are super excited to announce that you are on our nice list this year! So, whether you’re mermaid mad yourself or you know a little girl or boy who dreams of being a mermaid, we’ve got the festive goodies for you… Winter’s tail With only seven weeks until the big man comes down the chimney, you can forget your traditional Christmas stocking – hang up these mermazing stockings on your fireplace and then fill them to the brim with ALL our accessories. Brush up All mini (and mighty) mermaids love make-up, and these beautiful mermaid brushes are ideal for perfecting that Ariel-inspired look. And with 10 in a pack, you can definitely say that your collection’s complete. Luscious locks No mermaid wants tangles in her hair, but every mermaid wants to look gorgeous in the pool – so now you can get the best of both worlds with our swimming hat! Spec-tacular Who cares about chlorine when you can look amazing in a pair of Planet Mermaid goggles? With pretty stars and a pink strap, every mermaid will stand out in the water. That’s a wrap Even out of the pool, mermaids need to look the part and now you can with our cute hair scrunchies and wraps for adults and children. From Purple Surf to Rainbow Carnival and Ocean Kiss, our colours will match your look on land. Birthday mermaids Some mermaids are lucky enough to celebrate a birthday over the Christmas period, so why not mark the occasion with one of our mermaid birthday cards and a gift box? You can never have too much sparkle in December Mermaid movies When it comes to the big day itself, make sure you’ve got your phone or camera ready to capture the Christmas unwrapping joy. Then share the photos and videos with us on Instagram and Facebook – it’s the time for spreading Christmas cheer! Santa delivery Your Christmas dreams are important to us at Planet Mermaid, but with our festive UK delivery dates and exchange policies, they will certainly come true. From 18th December, we recommend Next Day Guaranteed to avoid disappointment, or: Tuesday 18th December: 2nd Class/Royal Mail Signed For 2nd Class Thursday 20th December: 1st Class/Royal Mail Signed For 1st Class/Royal Mail Tracked 48 Friday 21st December: Royal Mail Tracked 24 Saturday 22nd December: Royal Mail Special Delivery Guaranteed If you’re an international customer, fear not, we’ve got you covered with a three-day turnaround from £25: Tuesday 4th December: Africa, Middle East Friday 7th December: Cyprus, Malta, Asia, Far East, Eastern European (except Poland, Czech Republic and Solvakia) Saturday 8th December: Caribbean, Central and South America Monday 10th December: Greece, Turkey, Australia, New Zealand Friday 14th December: Canada, Czech Republic, Italy, Poland and USA Saturday 15th December: Finland, Sweden Monday 17th December: Austria, Denmark, Germany, Iceland, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Slovakia, Spain, Switzerland Tuesday 18th December: Belgium, France, Ireland, Luxembourg Now mermaids, swim away to our shop and start filling up that basket. Then keep your eyes peeled for some flipping amazing offers and giveaways on our Facebook page!
