Those of you who are bilingual, or multilingual, what did you find worked best when learning a new language? Do you believe you have to be totally immersed in the culture? Do you think you have to practice everyday? What tips/strategies would you suggest when learning another language?

I recently travelled to Quebec City to study French intensively. I found the most difficult part was my ability to hear or develop an "ear" for the language. Many Ontarians in the past, have learned French from Ontario-born French teachers. Often I will see something written in French, and know exactly what it is, however I find 'hearing' the language to be the most difficult part. As an ESL teacher I find my students often struggle with this as well, sounding out the individual letters and knowing that what one thinks may be a "b" is really a "v" instead.