Hello! I'm looking forward to a trip to Portugal this summer and want to learn some beginner Portuguese. But Duolingo is Brazilian Portuguese, and I'm seeing some resources say they are super different.
Thoughts on 1) where I could learn Portugal Portuguese, or 2) is it worth putting time into Duolingo since I'm just a beginner anyways?
Thanks for your help!
I’ve found several YouTube video series which offer Portugal Portuguese as well as a program called Memrise which has both free and paid subscriptions. When I get a chance later, I’ll see if I can find the videos on YouTube and post links.
Prior to my first trip (2016), I got an online tutor to try and pound the basics into my head. I have always tried to be able to say something in the native language and have a smattering of Spanish and French.
I must say Portuguese is not necessary as most people you will meet speak English. BUT, if you want to interact with some people (i.e. the policeman, the butcher, the fishmonger, or the owner of a tiny restaurant), some Portuguese will go a long way. Your efforts, no matter how tortured, will bring a smile to their faces.
BTW, don't try to get by with Spanish. That is considered insulting.
You are correct that Duolingo only has Brazilian Portuguese and the differences (although subtle) make it a waste of time.
I tried Memrise last time, but now have enrolled with "Practice Portuguese" and it seems to be better. It is costing me about $16/month and I will work it (hopefully) daily until my trip in June.
I would, if I were you, check out the site and see if it is for you.
Regards,
Dennis
Dennis mentioned the two programs most immigrants use if they don’t want to take private lessons.
But, as you likely will be in tourist areas, you will find 95% of the people will speak English. Learn the pleasantries - Bom Dia, Boa tarde and Boa Noite, obrigada and obrigado, desculpe, com licença - and you will be fine.
And, fyi - both of my Portuguese teachers have told me to use Duolingo for vocabulary.. It’s the pronunciation that’s very different in most cases. The biggest I’ve found with the basics is the Bom Dia. The Portuguese pronounce the ‘d’ and the Brazilian pronunciation is more like a ‘g’.
Many thanks to each of you! This is so helpful.
I used www.practiceportuguese.com to review before traveling there last summer. There are reasonably-sized lessons including vocabulary and verbs with listening and speaking practice exercises throughout. I liked it because a number of different speakers-men, women, children, with different speaking styles were included. It’s suitable for beginners as well as those looking for a review course. The authors of the program also supply beginning and survival language sessions as one of TAP’s inflight entertainment choices.
