Not only does the word itself sound more fluid, but I also think the connotation it has is more appropriate to the meaning Slate intends.
There are words that are similar, but some are more contextually appropriate.
The word in context is the most appropriate one, there are no alternatives.
The people are riding high above the clouds in their hot air balloons.
The group of women has no arms.
A family is outside.
the men are in the car
In Hong Kong's oldest building, there are no exhibits about tea.
A boy is at a skate park.