Flying internationally

Hi all -

I'm a deaf student pilot with my first solo coming up in a weekend or
two (I hope!).

I'm near the Canadian border, and have a number of friends there, as
well as family in Alaska I'd like to visit once I finally get my
license. What are peoples experiences with crossing the Canadian
border, and what needs to be done? Would a deaf pilot who can speak but
not receive be able to cross and land at a Canadian airport without
being chased by a border patrol?

On a slightly unrelated note, I'm looking for a handheld GPS / LORAN
unit to aid with cross country flying, especially once I start flying
around Alaska and Canada. While I'm a fair hand at dead reckoning,
flying hooded or blind triggers a mild claustrophobia, and I hate
having to depend on my instructor and on a radio on which I cannot
hear. Does anyone have recommendations for their favorite navigation
aids?

Thanks,

- Greg