We have DirecTV at our house. We’re not big TV watchers. I pay $7 or $8 a month for Netflix and I download my fave TV shows from iTunes. Sometimes for college football, etc. we use USTVNow.com and UFreeTV.com. I know that some people get a private IP address in order to get more access to some programming.
Does this answer your question? You might also look at Slingbox.com — lots of folks use this service.
Thanks, Suzan! Having lived in Italy for 17 years (’74-’91), I’m amazed to hear of the technological compatibilities between Ecuador and the U.S. The availability of American TV and movies will enhance my position on the pro/con list my wife and I are compiling in regards to potential expatriation. I’m not doing a home run trot just yet, but I’ve at least made it to the on-deck circle!