Over 1,000 people working as professional mermaids in America

Growing up to be a mermaid may well seem like a fantasy, however there are now over 1,000 professional mermen and mermaids working in the US.

According to a new report by Fast Company, the full time position is attracting all sorts of professionals from entertainers to designers and even fitness instructors. The sudden boom in the industry is supported by a rise in popularity of mermaid themed bars and restaurants.

Rachel Smith, Head Mermaid at mermaid themed lounge Dive Bar in Sacramento, during an interview with Fast Company, explained how the job is not as glamorous or as easy as it may seem.  

“It’s really hard, which is something I don't think people fully understand, because we want it to look so effortless. Our legs are tied together, the fish are running into us, and it's dark,” claimed Smith.