10 Useful Portuguese Phrases
Aug 17, 2010 • By Matt May •
Although the Algarve is a mature tourist destination, and English is spoken in most of the resorts of the coastal region, inland it is very useful to have some knowledge of the Portuguese language as many people don't speak English.
Faro bridge in the Algarve
The Portuguese language is derived from Latin, but also contains a strong Arabic influence. The language is spoken in a number of countries including Portugal, Brazil, Angola, Mozambique, Cape Verde and the island of Madeira (which is part of Portugal). The language is similar in many ways to Spanish, but the pronounciations are very different.
Below are a few useful Portuguese phrases with their English translations which may prove very useful for travellers:
Do you speak English? -> Fala Inglês?
Can you give me directions to... Albufeira? -> Pode dizer me como chegar a... Albufeira?
Can you tell me where is the nearest garage for petrol? -> Pode dizer me onde fica a estação de serviço mais proxima?
Where is the nearest shop? -> Qual a loja mais proxima?
Can you tell me where is the nearest telephone? -> Qual o telefone publico mais proximo?
Do you know where I can get a puncture fixed around here? -> Sabe onde fica a oficina de pneus mais proxima?
How much will it cost? -> Qual o preço?
Do you accept credit cards? -> Aceita cartão de crédito?
I don´t know the PIN for my card -> Não sei o código do meu cartão.
Thank you -> Obrigado (when speaking to a male) / Obrigada (female)
The Portuguese people are very friendly, and English is spoken in most of the resorts, but if you are visiting places away from the major Algarve tourist destinations, it is always advisable to have a phrasebook close to hand.