Besides moving to and living in China, what's the most practical, fastest, and easiest way to learn the basics of the (Mandarin) chinese language? I am not trying to master the language but rather be able to communicate day-to-day living phrases. Can anyone recommend any websites, products, schools ? Serious responses please.

(A translator for pinyin to english is preferred.) I would like a translator that translates whole phrases, not just a dictionary that translates individual words or characters. Thank you!

Besides moving to and living in China, what's the most practical, fastest, and easiest way to learn the basics of the (Mandarin) chinese language? I am not trying to master the language but rather be able to communicate day-to-day living phrases. Can anyone recommend any websites, products, schools ? Serious responses please.