Is Portuguese similar to Spanish?
I go to Madeira at least twice a year for the last eight years. First:-English is widely spoken especially in Funchal,the capital) Second :- There is a marked similarity between written Portuguese and Spanish. Portuguese alphabet does not have the letters K ,W or Y Third:- There is a wide difference in pronunciation between the two languages. Most(or nearly all) hotel staff will speak very good English and I would advise sticking to that. Some of the hotels may have a little Spanish but you you would be as well off saying “Por Favor” for please (as in Spanish) and “Obrigado” for thank you (For a woman speaking it is “Obrigada” These courtesies plus English will suffice for your holiday. Enjoy: It is a beautiful island with people to match.
