It's inevitable. In fact we could find "life" within our own solar system. Now intelligent life on the same level as animals, or even humans, might be a wee way off. I think eventually there will be some way to detect organic processes without having to visit planets, or at least detect clues of organic processes.
I think interacting with technologically advances species other than by remote communication is way way way off. I'd guess the nearest planet with civilisation is likely to be 10's to 100's of light-years away. Who knows, maybe we are the most technologically advanced species in the galaxy and all other species with the potential for technological advancement haven't even discovered agriculture yet.
“The fundamental cause of the trouble is that in the modern world the stupid are cocksure while the intelligent are full of doubt.” - Bertrand Russell
"When the power of love overcomes the love of power, the world will know peace."
Jimi Hendrix
