I've used a VPN on numerous occasions traveling, because certain American media can't be viewed abroad due to licensing and agreements, I believe. The one I've had the most luck and security with is called HMA (Hide My Ass). Despite the funny name, I feel it is rather secure and it doesn't really slow down my connection as much as other VPNs have. You can freely choose which country you wish to view websites as and alter your security settings how you see fit. The only downside to this program is that you have to pay a subscription fee, but they often offer a discounted fee if you buy a full year subscription at once. It's not overly expensive, in my opinion and I'd say it's worth the money. www.hidemyass.com - here is the website link. Take a look and see what you think.

Express VPN is the best for use inside of China. It costs about 84 RMB per month, or you can sign up for a 6 month contract for a slightly lower rate. GFW is extremely advanced compared to many other countries in the world which block out sites. It learns and tracks VPNs based on how they work. Express is the best at the moment Hidemyass gets poor reports from Chinese users for low speed and trouble getting around GFW.It is good for other people, just not great in China from what I've read. Vypr VPN previously received great reviews but I am not sure if it still works. Your next problem is that GFW blocks most of these services websites. If you had the VPN already it would work, but I believe GFW will have the site to download the ap blocked for you. You can try here and see: https://www.expressvpn.com/

I have had good experience with PureVPN. They charge $4.99/m and the speed is good. Great for people in China or any country.

People in the west don't often use VPNs - if they do, it is more for security, rather than to get through the 'Great Firewall of China', so they would not typically know which ones are suitable for that. You would be better to ask other Chinese people which ones they use.