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46 G O I N G P L A C E S | F A L L 2 0 1 5 istock A U T O M O T I V E Q When it comes to gasoline, is premium preferable to regular? A e best answer lies in your car's owner's manual, says Ken Francis, CAA Manitoba's Approved Auto Repair Services supervisor. "Premium gas should only be used if your carmaker specifi- cally recommends it. is type of gasoline is generally required for vehicles fitted with a turbocharged or high-performance engine." A carmaker recommending premium gas may say that regular is only acceptable in an emergency situation as your engine may be damaged otherwise. Another may specify that regular gas, while posing no danger to the vehicle's engine, will nevertheless diminish the power output. "If the carmaker recommends regular gas, then it's pointless paying extra money for pre- mium. is will have no impact whatsoever on the car's performance and your Cavalier will never turn into a Porsche," says Francis. Years ago, the higher octane rating of premium gas was preferred due to its ability to better prevent engine knock when the air- fuel mixture ignites before it should, or self- ignites (ignition is usually the job of the spark plug). is could cause damage over time. But today's more advanced engines can better compensate for low octane gas due to a knock sensor, which delays the spark. Another myth to debunk: Francis notes that the use of premium gasoline (instead of regular when recommended by the manufac- turer) likely won't improve fuel economy – especially when factoring in the higher cost of premium versus regular – or the lifespan of your engine. e only benefit, which is barely quantifiable, is that premium fuel may contain additives, or additional additives, to make and keep the fuel and engine cleaner. T R A V E L Q I want to use the train to get around in Europe. What are my options? A European trains are fast, comfort- able, reliable and affordable, making it the preferred mode of transpor- tation for locals and tourists alike. Alice Martins, CAA Travel consultant, says there are two purchasing options: single tickets and rail pass. Which one you choose will depend on the length of your stay and which countries you're visiting. Single tickets If your trip involves less than three train-travel days, single (or point-to-point) tickets are best. But beware: depending on travel class, these tickets may not be exchanged, modified and/or refunded. Single tickets often include seat reservations. Rail passes If you plan on more than three train-travel days, then a pass is likely your best bet. ey provide some flexibility so you can modify plans as needed. ere are four types: • Consecutive Days Pass offers unlimited access for the duration of the pass. It suits those constantly on the move. • Flexi Pass allows for a predetermined num- ber of travel days during a longer period. For example, three days per month. You have the flexibility to choose which days you travel. • Saver Pass offers a discount (about 15 per cent) when two or more people travel together. • Youth Pass is for those under 25. In order to take full advantage of your pass, it's important to know the three types of trains: • trains with no seat reservations • high-speed and night trains requiring reser- vations, involving extra fees When Less Is More A column to answer all of your automotive, insurance or travel inquiries. To submit a question, email goingplaces@caamanitoba.com. ASK THE EXPERTS CAA Manitoba has a team of experts for all your automotive, travel and insurance needs. If you have a question or concern, we're here to help.