Best method for developing memory

In recent weeks I have been doing my best to adapt to an environment in a foreign country. I am trying to do my school work in French, learn how to cook and adequately shop for myself, and do my best to not offend. In the process I am doing my best to put my best foot forward and developing memory to help me get the little things right. I am trying to remember how to do all of these things to the best of my ability and I am really getting stuck on the memorization method. Do any of you all have ideas for developing memory? I don't want to just ship out and buy memory games, I am looking for a method to really make the most of my studying.