Clive answers:

I wouldn’t use translation programs like Babelfish that pretend they know the language. They don’t work, and they don’t help you.

I’m studying Arabic and I’m Chinese-born and raised in the US so I’m also trying to make my Chinese more fluent. And my mother’s a language teacher so I’ve got a few tips.
I lived in China for a while and not only was I surrounded by Europeans (only way to communicate was through English) but also all of my Chinese friends were kind of using me as English practice…so in the end, I very rarely spoke Chinese. So living in China doesn’t help unless you get a job, go to school in Chinese, or get acquainted with non-English speaking Chinese people.

I have no idea what your level is so here are tips to satisfy all.

1. I usually review vocabulary and grammar right before I go to sleep and right after I wake up (like, looking at a textbook while I eat breakfast or brush my teeth). It really works (for any subject).

2. Repetition. Keep looking at the book :/.

3. Listening to things in that language. For example, I listen to Arabic and Chinese music and I watch Chinese television shows and as much Arab ones as I can. Even though I don’t understand the Arabic songs at all (except for the ocassional word), it gets me used to the language.

I know there are a few Chinese television shows that teach Chinese that’s geared towards English-speakers. Maybe you could find those.

I installed CCTV cable. It’s quite cheap compared to regular American cable. I try to watch the news in Chinese, it’s the ultimate challenge because the anchors talk extremely fast.

TV shows are good for day-to-day living phrases, unless you watch a historical or weird sci-fi show.

4. Labelling. I label things I’ve learned in Arabic (bookself, bathroom, table, etc.). I first start off with the romanization and then once I get that down, I move on to actual Arabic script.

5. Make new Chinese-speaking friends :). And speak to them of course! Plus, it also gets you a little closer to the culture. Aaand who can say no to more friends?

I signed up for an account on cyworld.com (the Chinese branch). It’s like MySpace but in Chinese and much more amusing. I just randomly befriend people and write to them in Chinese.

6. Children’s books. Find children’s books with really basic Korean and read them. It’s definitely far better to enjoy reading something. It also gets you more exposed to the culture. Children’s books are definitely really interesting to analyze. And it gets you in touch with your inner child ^_^!

7. If you’ve achieved a certain level, try to find good translations of your favorite books. For me, I’ve found a really great translation of Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings in Chinese. It’s a great way to learn and getting through an entire chapter feels like a huge accomplishment. Plus, it makes understanding a little bit easier because you’ll know the story already. Helps with getting used to the grammar, etc.

8. I respond to my mother and close friends in Arabic when I can even though they don’t understand a word.

I hope that helped!!