Hi! I want some opinions from Chinese/Cantonese/Mandarin teachers on a question I've been torn about.
I'm Cantonese and I've been wanting to learn Cantonese to be able to talk to some of my family. However, as an English speaker, I know that pronunciation and character stroke wise, Mandarin is "easier" to learn. I'm wondering whether or not it is useful for me to learn Mandarin first and then Cantonese second, even though my motivation lies within Cantonese.
What do you teachers think?
Is it unrealistic to learn Cantonese first because it's technically harder or will Mandarin give me an upper hand in learning Cantonese?

Question

Hi! I want some opinions from Chinese/Cantonese/Mandarin teachers on a question I've been torn about.
I'm Cantonese and I've been wanting to learn Cantonese to be able to talk to some of my family. However, as an English speaker, I know that pronunciation and character stroke wise, Mandarin is "easier" to learn. I'm wondering whether or not it is useful for me to learn Mandarin first and then Cantonese second, even though my motivation lies within Cantonese. 
What do you teachers think?
Is it unrealistic to learn Cantonese first because it's technically harder or will Mandarin give me an upper hand in learning Cantonese?

Answer

There is no easy answer. I believe your family, your network, your environment would play a major role in language learning. 
When I was young, all of us spoke Henghua and Hokkien. Then we learned English abd Mandarin. 
I did my degree in England and many friends came from HK so I learned Cantonese by mingling with them ....

Answer

no, start learning Cantonese right away

Answer

Study the language that you are going to use.

The fact that you will use it is what will help you to learn it.

Also, don't be afraid to study the spoken language first and learn the writing system later.

Good luck!