Basic Local Info Needed

[HAMILTON]

I plan to go to phuket in either October or November for a month. I've been going to Pattaya for a month for each of the past 6 years or so. I know the pattaya prices well for hotels, condos and other stuff. Casual remarks from others make it seem very expensive. Can anyone tell me how much more expensive it is than Pattaya?
I dont know Phuket at all, though I've bought a good map.
Can anyone suggest good locations. I plan to go with my wife and dont want stuck out in the country or small town. We like the beach;( prefer to have accommodation beside or on it) but need to have a good sized town with plenty of shops and markets. After my own experiences in pattaya I think we would prefer to have our own condo or apartment. We could then cook a few meals for ourselves and be self-contained.
Any help or really good web links would be greatly appreciated. (Especially personal recommendations for accommodation)
Thanks.

[Happyman]

have a look around the Nai Harn area - condos and apartments there - nice beach - quiet -and only a short drive from Phuket town - Kata - Karon and Patong