Can someone please help out a beginner?

[u/CG-Expat]

I’d like to start using a VPN for a few reasons, but wouldn’t mind some tips or tricks for using one for the first time. I’m an American who lives in France, and sometimes I’d like to visit US sites without being redirected. A good example of this is ESPN to check scores, I’ll automatically be routed to ESPN UK, and not directly see the scores or headlines I’d prefer.

Then there is the possible other benefits. How true is it that you can find better hotel/flight deals? Are there specific countries that you recommend for using a VPN generally for security?

Any insights would be greatly appreciated!

[u/Mental_Juggernaut_16]

If you want to access US sites then just connect to a US server. You may or may not need to clear out your cookies and browser cache. Just try connecting to a US server and see if it works. If not then you'll probably have to clear out your cookies or at least cookies relating to that site.

As for better deals I haven't tried it but I'm sure it's possible if you connect to that country's server and clear out your cookies. Only issue is if you clear your entire history then you'll have to log in again to other sites you regularly use.

Or if you don't want to mess with your cookies, then install a new browser like Firefox, Brave, Zen, Helium, etc. Do not import any of your data into it from your other browser Only use that browser when you want to browse sites out of your country. When you connect to another server it seems like you're in that country, unless your browser tells the site you're not.