This is a great article, I'm currently on the search for a beginner course in French. I love that you've mentioned some cheaper and free options, because I'm on a budget. The 'Opening Doors School of Languages' offers quite a cheap course and a free trial lesson for $20 which is great if you want to try it out. There's also a group on couchsurfers that regularly meets to practise French. I guess in the end it takes lots of practise and motivation!