Traveler's Inn: Sleeping in the Courtyard?

In the Sakkara book, it says the traveler's inn charges for "lodging in the courtyard", and this confuses me, because I am used to sleeping with a roof over my head. I imagine that my players will be similarly confused unless I can explain this practice to them.

So how does this practice work? Do people in the Auran Empire actually pay to sleep while exposed to the elements? Does the inn provide bedrolls or tents or something? Does the courtyard have a stone floor instead of just grass? What if it rains? 

It has a paved floor and verandas so it's better than sleeping outside. The entrance to the courtyard is gated so you won't be robbed by criminals. And you won't be hassled or arrested for sleeping on the city streets.

 

[quote="Alex"]

It has a paved floor and verandas so it's better than sleeping outside. The entrance to the courtyard is gated so you won't be robbed by criminals. And you won't be hassled or arrested for sleeping on the city streets.

[/quote]

That is very helpful. Thanks again Alex!