Part of your decision on a shortwave (aka High Frequency "HF") receiver is the type of communications you want to hear. It sounds like you want the typical broadcast HF stations, like the BBC world service. But there is a lot more going on. Many stations transmit in single-side band (SSB) and you need a receiver able to receive it. A standard receiver may not. Also, although growing less common, is morse code, sent buy hand. If nothing else can get through hand sent HR morse code is the best bet. Simplest antenna is the long wire.