Do you ever wonder about where you'd like to one day settle down? Most of us don't want to move too far from our original home, but we do want to end up someplace that's just that little bit nicer than what we're accustomed to. Or more than a little bit nicer. Somewhere that has all the simple things that you could ever want. Now some people say Stoneybatter is the best place to live in Dublin, others say Harold's Cross (it's an ongoing argument in this office), but I'm here today to make the case for Dun Laoghaire. Here's why...

1. It's close to the city but not too close

Living in the city can be too hectic, living in the country can be too quiet, but living someplace like Dun Laoghaire is the Goldilocks Zone — it's just right. You won't have to give up the pleasures that living near our small nation's capital affords, but won't have to deal with all the stress of living in the Big Smoke either.

2. Life's just better at the seaside

There's just something special about being so close to the sea. When those glorious summer days roll around you won't have to make a big trek anywhere because you already live in the place that every Dubliner is flocking too.

3. You can walk along that pier whenever you like

We've noticed that the good people of Dublin are huge fans of long, relaxing walks and one of their favourites is the stroll along the pier in Dun Laoghaire. Passing by bandstands, stalls and sailing boats, a ramble down here is the perfect way to unwind with your other half in tow.

4. There are top quality eateries in abundance

If you're worried that departing the city will cut you off from decent restaurants, let us put those fears to rest. Stop into Harry’s Cafe for some of the best poached eggs in the county, get your sushi fix in Michie, savour succulent fresh fish at Cavistons restaurant and food emporium, or have a romantic dinner facing the sea at Toscana.

5. It's the Promised Land for ice cream fanatics

When the sun is splitting the rocks in Dublin, you'd make the journey here purely for the ice cream you can look forward to. Pay a visit to the iconic Teddy's to get yourself the perfect 99, or join the ginormous queue at Scrumdiddly's for the most deliciously decadent dessert you're ever likely to put in your mouth.

6. People's Park Market

Who doesn't love a good market? Open since 1890, the park features many examples of Victorian architecture, such as its Tea Rooms, and over 50 vendors set up shop here every Sunday selling hot food, baked goods, art and crafts, artisan food products and seasonal produce.

7. The 40 Foot

The 40 Foot is a Dublin institution and something we should all try at least once in our lifetimes. You haven't lived until you've stood on that precipice and taken the plunge into the deep, invigorating waters. Now imagine being able to do that on a regular basis...

8. Plenty of cultural delights

Of course, the city has an array of highbrow offerings to keep you cerebral types from getting bored, but Dun Laoghaire won't let you down in this regard. You'll find interesting educational events at Lexicon Library and Cultural Centre, catch the latest stage shows at Pavilion Theatre and you can even learn about the life and time of Ireland's greatest writer at the James Joyce Tower & Museum.

9. It's perfect for kids

Imagine what it must be like to grow up here. A beautiful park at the edge of the town centre, great ice cream on offer and a beach just minutes away from your doorstep. Does it get much more idyllic?

10. If you love the sea, you'll love Dun Laoghaire

The sea may be a harsh mistress, but she certainly is a looker. Dun Laoghaire celebrates and encourages all things water-related, being a hotspot for swimming, surfing, windsurfing, kitesurfing and stand-up paddleboarding. It's no wonder it's also home to the National Maritime Museum of Ireland.

11. To be honest, the main reason to live here is because it looks like this...

If that tickles your fancy, then you might want to check out Neptune Apartments, the latest property from VERT, in Dun Laoghaire. Designed solely for the rental market, and loaded with amenities, the apartment complex is designed to suit the needs of individuals, couples and families.