This book really is front-loaded.
The best stories are the ones in the beginning, the articles in which he describes exploring places as diverse as Nevada and East Africa. Robbins captures the spirit of the places, taking them as they are, and explaining them as only a great writer can, willing to let the story go to wherever the adventure takes him. He does so in articles that are witty and daft, and, like many of his novels, confusing until you find yourself in the world he is exploring.
The profiles are OK, except here Robbins seems to start dropping his opinions in as if they are fact. But later on, they increasingly seem mired in sexism and thoughtlessness, surrounded by a libertarian philosophy that exhibits all the selfish flaws inherent in that viewpoint.
Still, it's a book I'd recommend for the wonderful writing Robbins is known for. And for showing us how to write a decent travel article.
Just skip over the bad parts.
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