It is very similar. I can read and write Hebrew and I can get through Aramaic, with little difficulty because of the similarities. Remember Hebrew adopted the Aramaic script at some point in its history, so Hebrew as we see today is the Aramaic script. I know that parts of Daniel, and Ezra are originally written in Aramaic.
I wish I had the time and energy to study Hebrew and get the real feeling behind what is said in the scriptures. Knowing I'm reading a translation makes me feel I'm missing something and those who can speak tell me I am.