Are you interested in practicing your Japanese, but don't have the money to buy expensive language tapes? Check out this website: www.byki.com

BYKI stands for "Before You Know It". The site offers a free download of an easy to use flashcard software that drills you in various Japanese phrases, verbs and vocabulary words -- there are many other languages available too. You can listen to a native speaker pronounce the words, as well as see the proper kanji/katakana/hiragana that goes along with the romanji, which is essential for truly learning Japanese. Because when you get to Tokyo, nothing is written in romanji!

I downloaded the free Japanese version and I absolutely love it. The software is easy to use and it's addictive to sit and flip through the cards. For 39.00 USD, you can upgrade to the full version, which has even more lists as well as the ability to transfer your flashcards to your iPod or your Palm Pilot.

After having tried the software for a few days, I have to say that I think it excels in teaching conversational Japanese, but I don't think I'm any closer to learning how to actually read my favorite untranslated manga. But it is a good place to start!

Additionally, for those with little ones in school, the site offers free downloads of the Periodic Table, Multiplication Tables and other such learning aides.