just realized i'm 2 years late with that comment.... hahaha... oh well.

I'm using applications on my samsung phone- mandarin flashcards as well as other apps with interpretations of basic questions and statements that will probably be useful once i get there.  it definitely isn't easy but i enjoy a challenge.

Just a note to let everyone know to BEWARE of CHINESEVOICE.COM.

I recently signed up for their trial lessons and e-workbook. I have received NOTHING but they have taken the money from my account. I'm still corresponding via email but to date have NOT received a refund despite repeated requests. I'll continue to try and get a positive outcome but in the meantime all I can do is warn others so you don't suffer the same outcome.

Thanks to those who have sent me alternate options. I am now looking at those but admit I'm very suspicious after my experience  with Chinese Voice.

Check your email!  Might be able to help a little.

Hey,

Best of luck with your Madarin lessons - I learnt it at school and it was super-hard! I don't know much about chinesevoice.com, but I'd certainly recommend the Michel Thomas method of learning languages: http://www.michelthomas.co.uk/mandarinchinese.htm - I've done the Spanish one and it's really clear and gives you a good grounding. It might also be worth checking out this site, which is free: http://www.livemocha.com/

Hope that helps - good luck!