The easiest way to study language is living in this-language-speakin'-country. Come to Ulan-Ude and learn Russian here! 70 miles to Baikal, friendly people on the streets (mostly), and позы as the most popular food. Well, we had accidents in the past - an Australian traveler was nearly killed by bandits, but it was just one time, and other 230000 tourist in year are safe. Just do not walk out of the streets, do not walk in "квартала" alone and you will be safe.
Yesterday me and my friends presented a cake to American traveler. Just for lulz. We are the members of "Лига Добра" = League of Kindness.