TANIA Lewis from Crown Currency Exchange thinks locals would be “mad” not to invest in foreign currency while the Australian dollar is trading strong.

Crown Currency Exchange has a new branch open for business from Monday in Coolangatta, which will be the first currency exchange in the area.

“We had such a big demand for currency exchange in Coolangatta that we decided to open our fourth branch at Lifestyle Travel,” Ms Lewis, the company's business development manager, said.

In addition to major currencies, Crown Currency Exchange also keeps stocks of more exotic currencies, such as Egyptian pounds and Argentinean pesos.

“We can give travellers the right currency for the right country, right away,” she said.

But the branch is not just for people looking to holiday abroad.

Purchasing a few extra American dollars means investors could make a bit of money once the greenback regained strength.

“We don't charge fees on the exchange so if you purchase a few American dollars each week and stash it, when the market turns you'll be able to then buy back more Australian dollars and make money in the long run,” she explained.

The Australian dollar has climbed 27% against the American dollar in the past year. At time of going to press, the Australian dollar was up at 107.25 US cents after trading at 106.95 US cents on Friday.

Those who have been planning a trip abroad, but have found saving the money difficult, can purchase spending money in instalments.

“If someone plans to go to, say, Europe, they can purchase 50 euro dollars a week and by the time their trip comes they have a couple of hundred dollars spending money ready to go.”

Crown Currency Exchange provides currency purchases and sales, travellers cheques, phone cards and travel insurance.

To find out more about the new Coolangatta store visit www.crowncurrency.com.au.