To answer your question, no it is not normal to have to go to the bar to order a drink. I have read that staffing has been an issue lately and has had an effect on service. Possibly, that was the reason. That being said, we spent 14 days on the Silhouette this past June. We frequented the Ensemble Lounge and/or the Martini Bar every night and never once felt the need to go to the bar to order a beverage. So sorry you experienced this lack of service on your sailing. Be assured that this is not the norm on Celebrity ships.