That's right 28 Oct 2010, Minecraft will get a long awaited patch to fix many issues as well as include a new zone and new materials/craftable items!!! One of which is a portal, to help traverse long distances, as well as one to get you home. No solid word if the world for which a few of us have destroyed/built or otherwise made inhabitable will remain in contact.
For those who have not tried out Minecraft yet... do so! Unless your stuck on a ship
Its a great way to be creative and destructive with no real grind other than enjoying what your doing.