I'm thinking of taking up Portuguese (again) but am not sure as to which variety to learn. I'm in Asia, and near Macau and East Timor, so I believe Portugal's variety would be best, as I also need to take proficiency exams in it. However, I want to explore Latin American life and literature, and I'd need Brazil's variety for that. I know the differences are not that big but there are significant pronunciation barriers. I thought of picking up Portugal than Brazil varieties as time goes by... For Spanish speakers, which version is most distinct from Spanish?
Also, as I know Spanish, I'm wondering how anyone else who knows or learns Portuguese and Spanish manages these two. I am so afraid of mixing and losing my Spanish, as I slogged so much on it. Does anyone who learns other cognate languages have any advice?
Thanks!