I'm currently in China. VPNs are very common and popular here. Many work very poorly unfortunately (Private Internet Access included). Astrill appears to be the most popular and best performing. A few high-end hotels that I've stayed at route all traffic through a VPN to cater to their Western audience.
Many, many people with little technical ability use a VPN, especially in businesses dealing with the West.
Many, many people with little technical ability use a VPN, especially in businesses dealing with the West.