I never believed that spanish didn't understand portuguese, though I was told often enough. I mean, if we can understand them, it stands to reason they must understand us..
Well, untill last year. Went for an Aerosmith concert in Barcelona... We spent quite some time speaking with them waiting... and they really don't. And most people have lousy english, cause their tv is murdered.. so they're not used to it... UN-FREAKIN-BELIEVABLE!
Of couse, when people want to understand each other, they do. That is my firm belief.